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Theme 1: Family and Community • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 1: Family and Friends
Understanding Diverse Family Structures, Daily Responsibilities, Care, and Joyful Relationships
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Diverse types of families: Nuclear families, joint families, and single-parent households.
- Sharing household chores, caring for elderly grandparents, and supporting siblings.
- Family traditions, cultural stories passed down across generations, and family albums.
- Empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution in everyday friendships at school.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What is the difference between a nuclear family and a joint family? Give examples of tasks shared in both.
Understanding Family Dynamics
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
A nuclear family consists of parents and their children living together in a household. In contrast, a joint family includes grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins living together under one roof.
Shared Tasks:
• In a joint family, grandparents often help take care of grandchildren and narrate moral stories, while uncles and aunts help cook or run family businesses.
• In a nuclear family, parents and children work as a tight team—parents cook and buy groceries while children help lay the dining table, water plants, and keep school bags tidy.
Shared Tasks:
• In a joint family, grandparents often help take care of grandchildren and narrate moral stories, while uncles and aunts help cook or run family businesses.
• In a nuclear family, parents and children work as a tight team—parents cook and buy groceries while children help lay the dining table, water plants, and keep school bags tidy.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate definitions of nuclear and joint families
1.5 Marks
Clear examples of shared responsibilities and mutual support
1.5 Marks
Q2
How can children show respect and help elderly family members in their daily lives?
Empathy & Grandparent Care
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Children can care for elderly family members by:
1. Helping with simple chores: Bringing their spectacles, newspaper, medicines, or a glass of water promptly.
2. Spending quality time: Listening to their childhood memories and reading books or news headlines to them.
3. Assisting mobility: Holding their hands while walking in the park or climbing stairs to prevent falls.
4. Speaking politely: Being patient and never shouting when grandparents have trouble hearing.
1. Helping with simple chores: Bringing their spectacles, newspaper, medicines, or a glass of water promptly.
2. Spending quality time: Listening to their childhood memories and reading books or news headlines to them.
3. Assisting mobility: Holding their hands while walking in the park or climbing stairs to prevent falls.
4. Speaking politely: Being patient and never shouting when grandparents have trouble hearing.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of 3-4 concrete caring behaviors
2 Marks
Emphasis on patience and emotional well-being
1 Mark
Q3
What should you do when you and your friend disagree about which game to play at recess?
Friendship & Conflict Resolution
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
When friends disagree about a game, they should avoid fighting or leaving the playground. Instead, they can:
1. Take Turns: Play one game for the first 10 minutes and the other game for the next 10 minutes.
2. Toss a Coin / Vote: Use a fair choice method like a coin toss or stone-paper-scissors with good sportsmanship.
3. Find a Common Alternative: Pick a third game that both friends enjoy playing together.
1. Take Turns: Play one game for the first 10 minutes and the other game for the next 10 minutes.
2. Toss a Coin / Vote: Use a fair choice method like a coin toss or stone-paper-scissors with good sportsmanship.
3. Find a Common Alternative: Pick a third game that both friends enjoy playing together.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Fair cooperative methods (turn-taking, consensus)
1.5 Marks
Positive conflict resolution attitude
0.5 Marks
Q4
Explain what a Family Tree is. Draw a simple 3-generation family tree showing Grandparents, Parents, and Children.
Family Relationships • Family Tree
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Family Tree Diagram & Explanation:
• A Family Tree is a drawing or diagram that shows how different members of a family across generations are related to one another.
Structure of 3-Generation Family Tree:
• A Family Tree is a drawing or diagram that shows how different members of a family across generations are related to one another.
Structure of 3-Generation Family Tree:
[ Grandfather ] ===== [ Grandmother ] (Generation 1: Eldest)
|
+------------+------------+
| |
[ Father ] = [ Mother ] [ Uncle ] = [ Aunt ] (Generation 2)
|
+------+------+
| |
[ Child 1 ] [ Child 2 ] (Generation 3: You & Siblings)
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear conceptual definition of a family tree
1.0 M
Accurate 3-generation layout with clear connections
2.0 M
Q5
Why is it important that all family members share daily household chores instead of leaving all the work to one person?
Sharing Household Chores • Teamwork at Home
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance of Sharing Work:
1. Fairness and Health: If one person (like mother) does all the cooking, cleaning, and washing, she becomes exhausted and unwell. Sharing work keeps everyone healthy.
2. Mutual Respect: When children and adults work together, they learn responsibility, appreciate each other's efforts, and develop stronger family bonding.
1. Fairness and Health: If one person (like mother) does all the cooking, cleaning, and washing, she becomes exhausted and unwell. Sharing work keeps everyone healthy.
2. Mutual Respect: When children and adults work together, they learn responsibility, appreciate each other's efforts, and develop stronger family bonding.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Health and fairness rationale
1.5 M
Responsibility and family bonding rationale
1.5 M
Q6
In the classroom activity 'Touch and Guess':
(a) A child is blindfolded. How can she identify an orange, a rose petal, and a spoon without seeing them?
(b) Which sense organs are used when sight is blocked? Sensory Awareness • Touch and Guess Game 3 Marks
(a) A child is blindfolded. How can she identify an orange, a rose petal, and a spoon without seeing them?
(b) Which sense organs are used when sight is blocked? Sensory Awareness • Touch and Guess Game 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Sensory Perception:
(a) Identifying Objects Blindfolded:
• Orange: Identified by its sweet citrus fragrance (smell) and bumpy, round peel texture (touch).
• Rose petal: Identified by its delicate floral scent (smell) and soft, velvety surface (touch).
• Spoon: Identified by its cold, smooth metal texture and hard concave shape (touch).
(b) Sense Organs Used:
• Skin (Touch) and Nose (Smell).
(a) Identifying Objects Blindfolded:
• Orange: Identified by its sweet citrus fragrance (smell) and bumpy, round peel texture (touch).
• Rose petal: Identified by its delicate floral scent (smell) and soft, velvety surface (touch).
• Spoon: Identified by its cold, smooth metal texture and hard concave shape (touch).
(b) Sense Organs Used:
• Skin (Touch) and Nose (Smell).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate sensory clues for all three items
2.0 M
Correct sense organs named (Skin and Nose)
1.0 M
Q7
Write two caring habits you can practice every day to help your aging grandparents feel loved and comfortable.
Caring for Elders • Family Values
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Caring Habits for Grandparents:
1. Spend 15 minutes talking with them, listening to their childhood stories, and reading the newspaper aloud to them.
2. Fetch their drinking water, spectacles, or walking stick promptly with a cheerful smile whenever they need it.
1. Spend 15 minutes talking with them, listening to their childhood stories, and reading the newspaper aloud to them.
2. Fetch their drinking water, spectacles, or walking stick promptly with a cheerful smile whenever they need it.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two practical, empathetic, and respectful daily actions
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 1 ('Family and Friends'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Family and Friends'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Family and Friends'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Promoting Inclusivity and Social Empathy
Real-Life Context: A new boy named Kabir has joined Class 3. He uses a wheelchair and speaks a different regional language at home. During lunch recess, Kabir sits alone near the classroom door while other children run outside to play tag.
Analytical Task: Drawing on the values in 'Family and Friends', what thoughtful actions should the classmates take to welcome Kabir and make him feel included?
Classmates should demonstrate the warmth of an extended family. They can invite Kabir to join their lunch circle, learn greeting words in his native language, and introduce games that everyone can play together from a seated position (such as chess, carrom, word building, or singing). They can also take turns keeping him company, pushing his wheelchair gently during playground walks, and ensuring wheelchair ramps are clear of bags and obstacles.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Demonstration of empathy, peer inclusivity, accessibility awareness, and cooperative social values (4 Marks).
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Theme 1: Family and Community • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 2: Going to the Mela
Exploring Local Fairs, Community Markets, Crafts, Traditional Rides, and Cultural Heritage
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The cultural significance of village and town melas (fairs) as hubs of celebration and trade.
- Traditional artisans and occupations: Potters, weavers, bangle makers, and toy artisans.
- Safety rules in crowded public places: Holding an adult's hand, remembering emergency contacts.
- Using local coins and currency to purchase handmade goods and traditional snacks.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What kinds of artisan stalls and local goods do people find in a community mela?
Community Culture & Crafts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
A community mela displays rich local crafts and livelihoods:
1. Clay Pottery & Toys: Earthen pots (matkas), kulhads, clay whistles, and painted figurines made by local potters.
2. Handmade Textiles & Bangles: Colorful lac and glass bangles, embroidered dupattas, and handloom kurtas.
3. Handcrafted Wooden & Bamboo Items: Wooden spinning tops (lattu), bamboo flutes, and hand-woven wicker baskets.
4. Traditional Sweets: Jalebi, imarti, cotton candy, roasted groundnuts, and sweet batashas.
1. Clay Pottery & Toys: Earthen pots (matkas), kulhads, clay whistles, and painted figurines made by local potters.
2. Handmade Textiles & Bangles: Colorful lac and glass bangles, embroidered dupattas, and handloom kurtas.
3. Handcrafted Wooden & Bamboo Items: Wooden spinning tops (lattu), bamboo flutes, and hand-woven wicker baskets.
4. Traditional Sweets: Jalebi, imarti, cotton candy, roasted groundnuts, and sweet batashas.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Detailed listing of 4 distinct artisanal goods/stalls
2 Marks
Appreciation of traditional livelihoods
1 Mark
Q2
What important safety precautions should every child observe when visiting a crowded fair?
Safety Protocols in Public Spaces
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Children must follow these essential safety rules in crowded places:
1. Stay With Adults: Always hold a parent's or guardian's hand and never wander off toward toy stalls alone.
2. Emergency Information Card: Keep a pocket slip containing parents' names, phone numbers, and home address.
3. Identify Safe Help Points: If separated, never leave the venue with strangers; immediately approach a police officer or the official Mela Information & Public Announcement Booth.
4. Establish a Meeting Spot: Agree upon a noticeable landmark (e.g., the clock tower or entry gate) where family members can reunite if separated.
1. Stay With Adults: Always hold a parent's or guardian's hand and never wander off toward toy stalls alone.
2. Emergency Information Card: Keep a pocket slip containing parents' names, phone numbers, and home address.
3. Identify Safe Help Points: If separated, never leave the venue with strangers; immediately approach a police officer or the official Mela Information & Public Announcement Booth.
4. Establish a Meeting Spot: Agree upon a noticeable landmark (e.g., the clock tower or entry gate) where family members can reunite if separated.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear safety actions (holding hands, ID slip, safe personnel)
2 Marks
Reunion protocol in case of getting lost
1 Mark
Q3
How can visitors help keep the mela grounds clean and free from plastic garbage?
Hygiene & Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Visitors can protect the environment by:
• Carrying cloth bags for purchases to avoid single-use polythene bags.
• Disposing of used leaf plates (pattals), sugarcane peels, and paper cups strictly into designated color-coded dustbins.
• Avoiding food wastage by taking only what they can finish.
• Carrying cloth bags for purchases to avoid single-use polythene bags.
• Disposing of used leaf plates (pattals), sugarcane peels, and paper cups strictly into designated color-coded dustbins.
• Avoiding food wastage by taking only what they can finish.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Anti-littering and waste segregation practices
1.5 Marks
Use of eco-friendly alternatives
0.5 Marks
Q4
At a village or neighborhood mela, you see artisans making handicrafts.
(a) Name two handmade toys commonly sold by artisans at a traditional fair.
(b) Why should we support traditional local artisans instead of buying factory-made plastic toys? Local Crafts • Artisans at the Mela 3 Marks
(a) Name two handmade toys commonly sold by artisans at a traditional fair.
(b) Why should we support traditional local artisans instead of buying factory-made plastic toys? Local Crafts • Artisans at the Mela 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Handicrafts & Fair Economy:
(a) Traditional Handmade Toys:
• 1. Clay figurines / whistles (mitti ke khilone).
• 2. Wooden spinning tops (lattu) / wooden rocking horses.
(b) Supporting Artisans:
• Traditional artisans preserve ancient cultural heritage and use eco-friendly natural materials (clay, wood). Buying from them provides livelihood to rural craftsmen and keeps our country's folk arts alive.
(a) Traditional Handmade Toys:
• 1. Clay figurines / whistles (mitti ke khilone).
• 2. Wooden spinning tops (lattu) / wooden rocking horses.
(b) Supporting Artisans:
• Traditional artisans preserve ancient cultural heritage and use eco-friendly natural materials (clay, wood). Buying from them provides livelihood to rural craftsmen and keeps our country's folk arts alive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two authentic handmade toys named
1.0 M
Cultural preservation and ecological benefits explained
2.0 M
Q5
Which community helpers work hard at a crowded mela to keep visitors safe and comfortable?
List three helpers and their responsibilities. Community Helpers • Safety at the Mela 3 Marks
List three helpers and their responsibilities. Community Helpers • Safety at the Mela 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers at the Fair:
1. Police Officers: Maintain law and order, control crowds, and run the 'Lost and Found' booth for lost children.
2. Sanitation Workers: Continuously empty waste bins and sweep paper plates to keep the fairgrounds clean and hygienic.
3. First-Aid Medics / Doctors: Provide immediate medical care, bandages, and oral hydration to anyone injured or dizzy.
1. Police Officers: Maintain law and order, control crowds, and run the 'Lost and Found' booth for lost children.
2. Sanitation Workers: Continuously empty waste bins and sweep paper plates to keep the fairgrounds clean and hygienic.
3. First-Aid Medics / Doctors: Provide immediate medical care, bandages, and oral hydration to anyone injured or dizzy.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three distinct helpers with accurate fairground duties
3.0 अंक
Q6
Describe the four simple steps to make a small clay diya or clay bowl using natural potters' clay.
Clay Modelling Activity • Making Diya / Toy
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Step-by-Step Clay Craft:
1. Kneading: Knead damp clay thoroughly with fingers until it is soft, smooth, and free of air bubbles.
2. Ball Making: Roll a piece of clay between palms into a smooth sphere.
3. Shaping: Press your thumb into the center to make a hollow bowl, pinching the rim outward to form the groove for the wick.
4. Drying: Place the diya in the shade to dry, then sun-bake it so it turns firm and sturdy.
1. Kneading: Knead damp clay thoroughly with fingers until it is soft, smooth, and free of air bubbles.
2. Ball Making: Roll a piece of clay between palms into a smooth sphere.
3. Shaping: Press your thumb into the center to make a hollow bowl, pinching the rim outward to form the groove for the wick.
4. Drying: Place the diya in the shade to dry, then sun-bake it so it turns firm and sturdy.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Four procedural steps of clay modelling described
3.0 M
Q7
If the Giant Wheel is to your North and the Food Stalls are to your East, in which direction must you turn from the Giant Wheel to reach the Food Stalls?
Mela Map Navigation • Basic Directions
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Directional Logic:
• Facing North towards the Giant Wheel, East is directly to your Right.
• Therefore, to go from the Giant Wheel towards the Food Stalls, you must travel in the South-East direction (or turn right towards the East).
• Facing North towards the Giant Wheel, East is directly to your Right.
• Therefore, to go from the Giant Wheel towards the Food Stalls, you must travel in the South-East direction (or turn right towards the East).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct directional logic and turn identified
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 2 ('Going to the Mela'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Going to the Mela'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Going to the Mela'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Supporting Local Artisans and Economic Sustainability
Real-Life Context: At a district fair, modern imported plastic battery toys are sold right next to a traditional potter selling hand-moulded clay bird whistles. Many children rush to the plastic toys, while the elderly potter sits with few buyers.
Analytical Task: Why is it important to support traditional local artisans at fairs, and what can school communities do to promote eco-friendly indigenous crafts?
Supporting traditional artisans is vital because their crafts represent centuries of cultural heritage, utilize biodegradable natural materials (clay, wood, natural dyes), and provide honest livelihoods to rural families. Plastic toys generate non-recyclable electronic and microplastic waste. Schools can organize 'Heritage Craft Days', invite local potters to conduct workshops, and encourage children to purchase eco-friendly festive gifts directly from local craftspeople.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Appreciation of indigenous crafts, environmental comparison (clay vs plastic), and actionable cultural promotion ideas (4 Marks).
3
Theme 1: Family and Community • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 3: Celebrating Festivals
Cultural Diversity, Traditional Delicacies, Festive Music, and Unified Community Celebrations
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Festivals of India: Harvest festivals (Bihu, Pongal, Baisakhi), religious festivals (Diwali, Eid, Christmas, Gurpurab).
- Special festive foods and sweets prepared with seasonal agricultural harvests.
- Eco-friendly celebrations: Rangoli with flower petals, earthen diyas, and avoiding firecrackers.
- The underlying spirit of festivals: Brotherhood, generosity, forgiveness, and community sharing.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What are harvest festivals? Name two harvest festivals celebrated in different parts of India and their special dishes.
Festival Diversity & Significance
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Harvest festivals are joyous community celebrations held when standing agricultural crops ripen and farmers gather their hard-earned yield.
Examples:
1. Pongal (Tamil Nadu): Celebrated to honor the Sun God and cattle after harvesting paddy and sugarcane. The special dish is 'Sweet Pongal' made of newly harvested rice, jaggery, milk, and cashew nuts boiled in an earthen pot.
2. Bihu / Magh Bihu (Assam): Marks the end of the winter harvesting season. People construct thatched bamboo huts (Bhelaghar) and prepare traditional rice cakes called 'Pitha' and 'Laru' (sesame/coconut sweets).
Examples:
1. Pongal (Tamil Nadu): Celebrated to honor the Sun God and cattle after harvesting paddy and sugarcane. The special dish is 'Sweet Pongal' made of newly harvested rice, jaggery, milk, and cashew nuts boiled in an earthen pot.
2. Bihu / Magh Bihu (Assam): Marks the end of the winter harvesting season. People construct thatched bamboo huts (Bhelaghar) and prepare traditional rice cakes called 'Pitha' and 'Laru' (sesame/coconut sweets).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Precise definition of harvest festivals
1 Mark
Identification of two regional harvest festivals with authentic festive foods
2 Marks
Q2
Why should we avoid bursting chemical firecrackers during festivals? List three harmful effects.
Eco-Friendly Celebrations
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Bursting chemical firecrackers causes severe harm to our living environment:
1. Dangerous Air Pollution: Firecrackers release toxic fumes (sulfur dioxide, lead, barium) that trigger asthma, coughs, and breathing distress in infants and elderly individuals.
2. Noise Pollution: The loud explosions terrify street animals, pet dogs, and nesting birds, causing severe trauma and hearing loss.
3. Toxic Chemical Litter: Burnt cracker residues leave hazardous chemical dust on streets that pollutes groundwater when washed by rain.
1. Dangerous Air Pollution: Firecrackers release toxic fumes (sulfur dioxide, lead, barium) that trigger asthma, coughs, and breathing distress in infants and elderly individuals.
2. Noise Pollution: The loud explosions terrify street animals, pet dogs, and nesting birds, causing severe trauma and hearing loss.
3. Toxic Chemical Litter: Burnt cracker residues leave hazardous chemical dust on streets that pollutes groundwater when washed by rain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Air pollution and human health impact
1 Mark
Noise impact on birds and domestic animals
1 Mark
Hazardous solid waste generation
1 Mark
Q3
What is the noble message behind community feasts such as the 'Langar' organized on Gurpurab?
Community Harmony
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
The message behind 'Langar' is absolute human equality, brotherhood, and selfless service. People of all castes, religions, rich and poor, sit together on the floor in a straight row (pangat) and partake of the same freshly cooked vegetarian food, teaching us that everyone is equal in the eyes of God.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Concept of equality and selfless community service
1.5 Marks
Inclusivity without discrimination
0.5 Marks
Q4
Match each festival with its traditional special food dish:
• Eid: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak]
• Holi: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak]
• Ganesh Chaturthi: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak]
• Christmas: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak] Festivals of India • Cultural Diversity 4 Marks
• Eid: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak]
• Holi: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak]
• Ganesh Chaturthi: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak]
• Christmas: [Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma, Gujiya, Plum Cake, Modak] Festivals of India • Cultural Diversity 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Traditional Festive Dishes:
• Eid $\rightarrow$ Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma
• Holi $\rightarrow$ Gujiya
• Ganesh Chaturthi $\rightarrow$ Modak
• Christmas $\rightarrow$ Plum Cake
• Eid $\rightarrow$ Sewaiyan / Sheer Khurma
• Holi $\rightarrow$ Gujiya
• Ganesh Chaturthi $\rightarrow$ Modak
• Christmas $\rightarrow$ Plum Cake
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct matching for all 4 festival dishes
4.0 M
Q5
(a) What is a 'Harvest Festival'?
(b) Name two harvest festivals celebrated in different parts of India. Harvest Festivals • Agricultural Connection 3 Marks
(b) Name two harvest festivals celebrated in different parts of India. Harvest Festivals • Agricultural Connection 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Harvest Festivals Explained:
(a) Definition:
• A harvest festival is a joyous celebration held by farmers and communities when agricultural crops (like wheat, rice, or sugarcane) are ripe and harvested. It is a thanksgiving to nature, sun, and rain.
(b) Two Indian Harvest Festivals:
• 1. Baisakhi (celebrated in Punjab for wheat harvest).
• 2. Pongal / Onam (celebrated in Tamil Nadu and Kerala for rice harvest).
(a) Definition:
• A harvest festival is a joyous celebration held by farmers and communities when agricultural crops (like wheat, rice, or sugarcane) are ripe and harvested. It is a thanksgiving to nature, sun, and rain.
(b) Two Indian Harvest Festivals:
• 1. Baisakhi (celebrated in Punjab for wheat harvest).
• 2. Pongal / Onam (celebrated in Tamil Nadu and Kerala for rice harvest).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear agricultural definition of harvest celebration
1.5 M
Two authentic Indian harvest festivals named with states
1.5 M
Q6
Why should we avoid bursting noisy, smoky firecrackers during festivals? Give two environmental reasons.
Eco-Friendly Celebrations • Environmental Protection
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Eco-Friendly Festive Reasons:
1. Air Pollution & Health: Firecracker smoke releases toxic gases and heavy chemicals that cause severe breathing problems, asthma attacks, and eye irritation for young children and elderly citizens.
2. Noise Pollution & Animals: The deafening blasts terrify street animals, pet dogs, and birds, who have far more sensitive hearing than humans.
1. Air Pollution & Health: Firecracker smoke releases toxic gases and heavy chemicals that cause severe breathing problems, asthma attacks, and eye irritation for young children and elderly citizens.
2. Noise Pollution & Animals: The deafening blasts terrify street animals, pet dogs, and birds, who have far more sensitive hearing than humans.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Air pollution/health impacts explained
1.0 M
Noise pollution and animal distress explained
1.0 M
Q7
Why do people wear new, colorful traditional clothes on festive occasions?
Traditional Attire • Unity in Diversity
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Cultural Expression:
• Traditional festive attire reflects cultural heritage, expresses joy and celebration, and symbolizes starting a new auspicious season with cleanliness, freshness, and positivity.
• Traditional festive attire reflects cultural heritage, expresses joy and celebration, and symbolizes starting a new auspicious season with cleanliness, freshness, and positivity.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cultural symbolism and festive joy explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 3 ('Celebrating Festivals'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Celebrating Festivals'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Celebrating Festivals'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Environmental Citizenship During Festive Celebrations
Real-Life Context: During Diwali and Ganesh Utsav, vast numbers of plaster-of-paris idols painted with chemical dyes and plastic decorations are submerged into local rivers and lakes, poisoning aquatic life and rendering water unfit for drinking.
Analytical Task: As responsible young environmental ambassadors, how can students encourage their neighborhoods to adopt 100% green and eco-friendly festive celebrations?
Students can launch school awareness campaigns to inspire green celebrations: (1) Advocate for idols made exclusively of unbaked local river clay (shadu mati) embedded with seeds, which dissolve harmlessly in home garden pots to sprout plants. (2) Replace synthetic chemical colors with natural flower petals (marigold, rose), turmeric, and spinach paste for rangolis. (3) Light traditional clay diyas filled with mustard or sesame oil instead of single-use plastic electric strings. (4) Celebrate with music, storytelling, and sharing sweets with underprivileged children rather than spending money on crackers.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Clay seed-idols, natural bio-rangolis, water protection awareness, and empathetic community sharing (4 Marks).
4
Theme 2: The Natural World Around Us • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 4: Getting to Know Plants
Observing Plant Anatomy, Root Systems, Leaf Venation, Photosynthesis, and Habitats
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Classification of plants based on stem structure: Herbs, shrubs, trees, climbers, and creepers.
- Root functions: Anchoring the plant firmly in soil and absorbing water and minerals.
- Leaves as food factories: Chlorophyll, sunlight, air, and water combining in photosynthesis.
- Leaf patterns: Reticulate venation (net-like) and parallel venation with distinct leaf margins.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
How do climbers and creepers differ from trees? Give two common examples of each.
Plant Classification
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Plants differ based on the strength and thickness of their stems:
1. Trees: Have thick, hard, woody brown trunks that stand erect independently (e.g., Banyan tree, Neem tree).
2. Climbers: Have weak, green stems that cannot stand upright alone. They produce tendrils to climb up walls, fences, or other trees (e.g., Money plant, Pea plant, Grapevine).
3. Creepers: Have soft, fragile stems and heavy fruits that creep along the horizontal surface of the ground (e.g., Pumpkin, Watermelon).
1. Trees: Have thick, hard, woody brown trunks that stand erect independently (e.g., Banyan tree, Neem tree).
2. Climbers: Have weak, green stems that cannot stand upright alone. They produce tendrils to climb up walls, fences, or other trees (e.g., Money plant, Pea plant, Grapevine).
3. Creepers: Have soft, fragile stems and heavy fruits that creep along the horizontal surface of the ground (e.g., Pumpkin, Watermelon).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Contrast of stem characteristics (woody vs weak)
1.5 Marks
Accurate botanical examples for trees, climbers, and creepers
1.5 Marks
Q2
Why are green leaves known as the 'food factories' or 'kitchen' of a plant?
Leaf Structure & Function
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaves are called the food factories because they prepare nourishment for the entire plant through the process of photosynthesis:
• Leaves contain a green pigment called chlorophyll that traps light energy from the sun.
• They absorb carbon dioxide gas from surrounding air through tiny pores called stomata.
• Roots absorb water and minerals from soil and send them up the stem into the leaves.
• Using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, the leaf manufactures sugar (glucose) and releases life-giving oxygen into the air.
• Leaves contain a green pigment called chlorophyll that traps light energy from the sun.
• They absorb carbon dioxide gas from surrounding air through tiny pores called stomata.
• Roots absorb water and minerals from soil and send them up the stem into the leaves.
• Using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, the leaf manufactures sugar (glucose) and releases life-giving oxygen into the air.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Explanation of photosynthesis and chlorophyll
1.5 Marks
Role of stomata, water, and oxygen release
1.5 Marks
Q3
Explain the difference between reticulate venation and parallel venation with leaf rubbings.
Botanical Observation
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Reticulate Venation: The veins branch out to create a web-like or criss-cross network across the entire leaf blade (e.g., Rose, Peepal, China Rose).
• Parallel Venation: The veins run side-by-side in parallel straight lines from the base to the leaf tip (e.g., Grass, Wheat, Maize, Banana).
• Parallel Venation: The veins run side-by-side in parallel straight lines from the base to the leaf tip (e.g., Grass, Wheat, Maize, Banana).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear visual description of both vein patterns
1.5 Marks
Accurate leaf examples
0.5 Marks
Q4
Classify plants into Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees based on their stems:
(a) What type of stem does a Herb have? Give an example.
(b) What type of stem does a Shrub have? Give an example.
(c) What type of stem does a Tree have? Give an example. Botanical Diversity • Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees 3 Marks
(a) What type of stem does a Herb have? Give an example.
(b) What type of stem does a Shrub have? Give an example.
(c) What type of stem does a Tree have? Give an example. Botanical Diversity • Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Plant Classification:
• (a) Herb: Has a green, soft, delicate stem with no wood (e.g., Mint, Coriander, Wheat).
• (b) Shrub: Medium-sized plant with a hard, woody stem branching out from near the base, resembling a bush (e.g., Rose, Hibiscus, Lemon).
• (c) Tree: Tall plant with a single, thick, hard, dark woody stem called the trunk (e.g., Neem, Banyan, Mango).
• (a) Herb: Has a green, soft, delicate stem with no wood (e.g., Mint, Coriander, Wheat).
• (b) Shrub: Medium-sized plant with a hard, woody stem branching out from near the base, resembling a bush (e.g., Rose, Hibiscus, Lemon).
• (c) Tree: Tall plant with a single, thick, hard, dark woody stem called the trunk (e.g., Neem, Banyan, Mango).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct stem trait and example for Herb
1.0 M
Correct stem trait and example for Shrub
1.0 M
Correct stem trait and example for Tree
1.0 M
Q5
Explain how to take a leaf rubbing using a wax crayon as described in the textbook activity.
Leaf Art Activity • Texture Rubbing
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Step-by-Step Leaf Rubbing:
1. Place a fresh leaf with prominent veins on a flat wooden table with its rough underside facing upward.
2. Lay a thin sheet of white paper flat over the leaf.
3. Take a wax crayon on its side and gently rub it back and forth over the paper.
4. The raised pattern of the leaf's central midrib and side veins will magically appear on the paper.
1. Place a fresh leaf with prominent veins on a flat wooden table with its rough underside facing upward.
2. Lay a thin sheet of white paper flat over the leaf.
3. Take a wax crayon on its side and gently rub it back and forth over the paper.
4. The raised pattern of the leaf's central midrib and side veins will magically appear on the paper.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Positioning rough underside facing up
1.0 M
Technique of rubbing crayon gently on side
1.0 M
Accurate result of leaf veins pattern emerging
1.0 M
Q6
Match each common medicinal plant with its traditional home remedy:
• Tulsi (Holy Basil): [Soothes burns and skin cuts, Relieves cough and cold, Antibacterial tooth cleaning / fever]
• Aloe Vera: [Soothes burns and skin cuts, Relieves cough and cold, Antibacterial tooth cleaning / fever]
• Neem: [Soothes burns and skin cuts, Relieves cough and cold, Antibacterial tooth cleaning / fever] Medicinal Plants • Home Remedies 3 Marks
• Tulsi (Holy Basil): [Soothes burns and skin cuts, Relieves cough and cold, Antibacterial tooth cleaning / fever]
• Aloe Vera: [Soothes burns and skin cuts, Relieves cough and cold, Antibacterial tooth cleaning / fever]
• Neem: [Soothes burns and skin cuts, Relieves cough and cold, Antibacterial tooth cleaning / fever] Medicinal Plants • Home Remedies 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Medicinal Plant Remedies:
• Tulsi: Relieves cough, throat infection, and seasonal cold.
• Aloe Vera: Soothes burns, cuts, and moisturizes skin.
• Neem: Antibacterial protection, purification, and skin healing.
• Tulsi: Relieves cough, throat infection, and seasonal cold.
• Aloe Vera: Soothes burns, cuts, and moisturizes skin.
• Neem: Antibacterial protection, purification, and skin healing.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct medicinal uses matched for all three plants
3.0 M
Q7
What four essential ingredients do green plants need to prepare their own food?
Photosynthesis Basics • Plant Nutrition
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Four Essentials for Plants:
1. Sunlight (from the Sun)
2. Water (absorbed by roots from soil)
3. Carbon Dioxide (absorbed from air through leaf pores/stomata)
4. Chlorophyll (the green pigment present in leaves).
1. Sunlight (from the Sun)
2. Water (absorbed by roots from soil)
3. Carbon Dioxide (absorbed from air through leaf pores/stomata)
4. Chlorophyll (the green pigment present in leaves).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All four essentials accurately named
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 4 ('Getting to Know Plants'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Getting to Know Plants'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Getting to Know Plants'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Investigative Botanical Inquiry: Sunlight and Plant Growth
Real-Life Context: Simran placed two identical potted mint plants on her balcony. She watered both with 100 ml of water daily, but placed an opaque cardboard box over Plant A while Plant B was exposed to normal sunlight. After 10 days, Plant A's leaves turned pale yellow and wilted, whereas Plant B was thriving and deep green.
Analytical Task: What scientific conclusion can Simran draw from this controlled observation, and how does chlorophyll depend on light?
Simran can conclude that sunlight is an indispensable requirement for photosynthesis and healthy plant life. Plant A could not produce chlorophyll in total darkness; without chlorophyll, it could not synthesize food from water and air, resulting in energy starvation, loss of green pigmentation (etiolation), and eventual wilting. Plant B, having regular sunlight, synthesized food continuously and grew vibrant leaves.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Hypothesis testing, role of sunlight in chlorophyll formation, controlled experiment interpretation (4 Marks).
5
Theme 2: The Natural World Around Us • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 5: Plants and Animals Live Together
Symbiosis, Food Chains, Animal Habitats, Pollination, and Ecological Interdependence
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Ecological interdependence: How plants provide oxygen, food, and shelter to animals.
- How animals assist plants: Pollination by bees and butterflies, seed dispersal by birds.
- Simple food chains: Grass (producer) → Grasshopper (herbivore) → Frog → Snake → Eagle.
- Respecting natural habitats: Avoiding nest destruction and protecting micro-habitats in school gardens.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Explain two ways in which plants help animals, and two ways in which animals help plants.
Mutual Interdependence
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Ways Plants Help Animals:
1. Oxygen & Nourishment: Green plants release oxygen during the daytime for animals to breathe and produce fruits, seeds, and nectar for food.
2. Shelter & Protection: Trees provide nesting places for birds, hollows for squirrels, and shade for grazing animals.
Ways Animals Help Plants:
1. Pollination: Insects like honeybees and butterflies carry pollen grains from flower to flower, allowing flowers to develop into fruits.
2. Seed Dispersal: Birds and monkeys eat fruits and drop seeds in distant places through their droppings, helping new trees germinate.
1. Oxygen & Nourishment: Green plants release oxygen during the daytime for animals to breathe and produce fruits, seeds, and nectar for food.
2. Shelter & Protection: Trees provide nesting places for birds, hollows for squirrels, and shade for grazing animals.
Ways Animals Help Plants:
1. Pollination: Insects like honeybees and butterflies carry pollen grains from flower to flower, allowing flowers to develop into fruits.
2. Seed Dispersal: Birds and monkeys eat fruits and drop seeds in distant places through their droppings, helping new trees germinate.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two clear contributions of plants to animal survival
1.5 Marks
Two vital contributions of animals to plant reproduction/dispersal
1.5 Marks
Q2
What is a food chain? Construct a simple 4-step land food chain starting with grass.
Food Chains & Producers
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
A food chain is a sequential feeding relationship that demonstrates who eats whom in nature to transfer energy from producers to consumers.
4-Step Food Chain:
Grass (Producer) ➔ Grasshopper (Herbivore) ➔ Frog (Carnivore) ➔ Snake (Apex Predator).
• Grass captures solar energy.
• The grasshopper feeds on green leaves.
• The frog preys on the grasshopper.
• The snake consumes the frog.
4-Step Food Chain:
Grass (Producer) ➔ Grasshopper (Herbivore) ➔ Frog (Carnivore) ➔ Snake (Apex Predator).
• Grass captures solar energy.
• The grasshopper feeds on green leaves.
• The frog preys on the grasshopper.
• The snake consumes the frog.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of food chain and energy flow
1.5 Marks
Correct 4-organism progression with appropriate ecological terms
1.5 Marks
Q3
Why are earthworms honored as 'the farmer's best friends'?
Soil Ecosystems
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Earthworms burrow through underground soil, making it loose and aerated so plant roots can breathe and absorb rainwater easily. Furthermore, their waste castings enrich the soil with rich natural humus and organic nutrients.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Soil aeration through burrowing
1 Mark
Nutrient enhancement through vermicompost/castings
1 Mark
Q4
How do plants and animals depend upon each other for survival? Give two clear examples.
Interdependence • Plants and Animals
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Ecological Interdependence:
1. Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Cycle: Plants produce oxygen during daytime, which animals breathe to stay alive. Animals breathe out carbon dioxide, which plants use to prepare food.
2. Food and Pollination: Animals eat plant fruits, nectar, and leaves. In return, bees and butterflies pollinate flowers so new fruits and seeds can grow.
1. Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Cycle: Plants produce oxygen during daytime, which animals breathe to stay alive. Animals breathe out carbon dioxide, which plants use to prepare food.
2. Food and Pollination: Animals eat plant fruits, nectar, and leaves. In return, bees and butterflies pollinate flowers so new fruits and seeds can grow.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange explained
1.5 M
Food and pollination mutual benefit explained
1.5 M
Q5
Classify the following animals according to their natural shelters:
Parrot, Earthworm, Rabbit, Fish, Monkey.
[Tree hollows/branches, Underground burrows, Moist soil, Water/Pond] Animal Shelters • Natural Habitats 3 Marks
Parrot, Earthworm, Rabbit, Fish, Monkey.
[Tree hollows/branches, Underground burrows, Moist soil, Water/Pond] Animal Shelters • Natural Habitats 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Shelter Classification:
• Parrot: Tree hollows / tree branches
• Monkey: Tree branches and canopy
• Earthworm: Moist underground soil
• Rabbit: Underground burrows
• Fish: Water (pond/river/lake)
• Parrot: Tree hollows / tree branches
• Monkey: Tree branches and canopy
• Earthworm: Moist underground soil
• Rabbit: Underground burrows
• Fish: Water (pond/river/lake)
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate natural shelter matches for all 5 animals
3.0 M
Q6
How can you make a bird feeder using a recycled plastic bottle or carton?
Hands-on Project • Making a Bird Feeder
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Recycled Bird Feeder Steps:
1. Take a clean, empty plastic bottle or milk carton and cut two small feeding holes (about 3 cm wide) on opposite sides, 5 cm from the base.
2. Push an old wooden pencil or chopstick right through the bottle just beneath each hole to act as a perch for birds to sit on.
3. Fill the bottle with birdseeds (millets, sunflower seeds).
4. Tie a sturdy string around the bottle neck and hang it from a shady tree branch safely away from cats.
1. Take a clean, empty plastic bottle or milk carton and cut two small feeding holes (about 3 cm wide) on opposite sides, 5 cm from the base.
2. Push an old wooden pencil or chopstick right through the bottle just beneath each hole to act as a perch for birds to sit on.
3. Fill the bottle with birdseeds (millets, sunflower seeds).
4. Tie a sturdy string around the bottle neck and hang it from a shady tree branch safely away from cats.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cutting feeding ports and inserting perch
1.5 M
Filling seeds and hanging safely described
1.5 M
Q7
What should you do if you encounter a stray dog while walking on the street? Write two safety guidelines.
Animal Welfare • Stray Dogs Etiquette
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Safety Guidelines for Stray Dogs:
1. Walk calmly without running, screaming, or throwing stones, which may frighten the dog and provoke a bite.
2. Avoid staring directly into an unfamiliar dog's eyes or disturbing a mother dog nursing her puppies.
1. Walk calmly without running, screaming, or throwing stones, which may frighten the dog and provoke a bite.
2. Avoid staring directly into an unfamiliar dog's eyes or disturbing a mother dog nursing her puppies.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two sensible, non-provocative safety rules
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 5 ('Plants and Animals Live Together'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Plants and Animals Live Together'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Plants and Animals Live Together'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Ecosystem Fragility: Decline of Honeybees
Real-Life Context: A farmer sprayed heavy chemical pesticides across his mustard and apple orchards to kill aphids. Soon after, all local wild honeybees and bumblebees vanished from the farm. The following spring, the fruit yield dropped by more than 75% even though the trees bloomed with flowers.
Analytical Task: Apply your understanding of 'Plants and Animals Live Together' to explain why the farmer's harvest collapsed after the bees died.
The farmer's harvest failed because honeybees are the primary pollinators of apple and mustard blossoms. When the bees landed on blossoms to gather nectar, pollen grains stuck to their fuzzy bodies and were transferred to neighboring flowers, enabling fertilization and seed/fruit formation. When pesticides wiped out the pollinators, the flowers withered without setting fruit. This demonstrates that killing one vital link disrupts the entire food-producing ecosystem.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Pollination mechanism, role of beneficial insects, ecological domino effect of chemical pesticides (4 Marks).
6
Theme 2: The Natural World Around Us • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 6: Living in Harmony
Coexisting with Neighborhood Wildlife, Stray Animal Care, Bird Feeders, and Conservation
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Urban and rural wildlife coexistence: Pigeons, sparrows, squirrels, bats, and stray dogs.
- Setting up bird baths and shaded earthen water pots on rooftops during hot summer months.
- Humane treatment of animals: Avoiding stone-throwing, cruelty, and caged captivity.
- Traditional Indian practices of compassion: Feeding ants (chiunti ko aata), jiva-daya, and sacred groves.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What simple steps can students take on their balconies or school grounds to help birds during scorching summer seasons?
Compassion in Action
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Students can provide life-saving relief to urban birds during summer by:
1. Installing an Earthen Water Bowl (Sakora): Placing shallow terracotta bowls of clean water in shaded corners and refilling them twice daily.
2. Hanging Grain Feeders: Placing small wooden or recycled bottle feeders with millet (bajra), broken wheat (dalia), or sunflower seeds.
3. Planting Shady Native Bushes: Growing native flowering shrubs like hibiscus, curry leaf, and bougainvillea that offer cool perches and insect food.
1. Installing an Earthen Water Bowl (Sakora): Placing shallow terracotta bowls of clean water in shaded corners and refilling them twice daily.
2. Hanging Grain Feeders: Placing small wooden or recycled bottle feeders with millet (bajra), broken wheat (dalia), or sunflower seeds.
3. Planting Shady Native Bushes: Growing native flowering shrubs like hibiscus, curry leaf, and bougainvillea that offer cool perches and insect food.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Specific hydration measures (terracotta bowls/cleaning)
1.5 Marks
Nutritional feed and safe shaded perches
1.5 Marks
Q2
Why should people never throw stones or firecrackers at stray dogs and cats?
Humane Treatment of Street Animals
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Street animals feel physical pain, terror, and grief just like humans. Throwing stones or firecrackers at them causes severe fractures, burns, and psychological trauma. Traumatized dogs may become fearful and defensively bite innocent passersby. Compassionate feeding, vaccination, and sterilization keep neighborhood animals calm, healthy, and friendly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Ethical consideration of pain and animal sentience
1.5 Marks
Behavioral consequences (fear aggression vs friendliness)
1.5 Marks
Q3
Mention two traditional community customs in India that reflect respect for animal life.
Cultural Conservation Practices
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Feeding Grain to Ants and Fish: Offering flour and sugar to ant colonies and puffed rice to river fish during morning walks.
2. Sacred Groves (Orans/Devrais): Community forest patches protected by villagers where tree-cutting and hunting are strictly prohibited to allow wild animals to roam in peace.
2. Sacred Groves (Orans/Devrais): Community forest patches protected by villagers where tree-cutting and hunting are strictly prohibited to allow wild animals to roam in peace.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate mention of two cultural traditions of wildlife coexistence
2 Marks
Q4
What human activities cause water pollution in neighborhood rivers and lakes? List three causes.
Environmental Harmony • Clean Air and Water
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Causes of Water Pollution:
1. Dumping plastic garbage, disposable bottles, and household waste into ponds and rivers.
2. Washing clothes, cleaning utensils, and bathing cattle directly in drinking water sources.
3. Discharging untreated poisonous chemical sewage from factories into waterways.
1. Dumping plastic garbage, disposable bottles, and household waste into ponds and rivers.
2. Washing clothes, cleaning utensils, and bathing cattle directly in drinking water sources.
3. Discharging untreated poisonous chemical sewage from factories into waterways.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three accurate causes of water pollution identified
3.0 M
Q5
(a) What is noise pollution?
(b) List two everyday sources of harmful noise in a city, and two pleasant, natural sounds. Sound Environment • Neighborhood Noise Map 3 Marks
(b) List two everyday sources of harmful noise in a city, and two pleasant, natural sounds. Sound Environment • Neighborhood Noise Map 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Sound & Noise Concepts:
(a) Definition:
• Noise pollution is any unwanted, loud, and harsh sound that causes disturbance, headache, sleep loss, and hearing damage to humans and animals.
(b) Contrast:
• Harmful Noise: Loud vehicular horns, blaring loudspeakers at night.
• Pleasant Natural Sounds: Birds chirping at dawn, rustling of leaves in gentle breeze.
(a) Definition:
• Noise pollution is any unwanted, loud, and harsh sound that causes disturbance, headache, sleep loss, and hearing damage to humans and animals.
(b) Contrast:
• Harmful Noise: Loud vehicular horns, blaring loudspeakers at night.
• Pleasant Natural Sounds: Birds chirping at dawn, rustling of leaves in gentle breeze.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear definition of noise pollution
1.0 M
Two loud urban sources named
1.0 M
Two pleasant natural sounds named
1.0 M
Q6
Write a short 3-line Nature Pledge for your school morning assembly.
Environmental Stewardship • Nature Pledge
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Nature Pledge:
1. I promise to treat all animals, birds, and trees with love, kindness, and respect.
2. I will never waste drinking water and will turn off dripping taps immediately.
3. I will keep my school and home clean, reduce plastic use, and plant green saplings.
1. I promise to treat all animals, birds, and trees with love, kindness, and respect.
2. I will never waste drinking water and will turn off dripping taps immediately.
3. I will keep my school and home clean, reduce plastic use, and plant green saplings.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three inspiring, actionable environmental commitments
3.0 M
Q7
Why are electric vehicles (EVs) and bicycles better for city air than petrol or diesel cars?
Air Quality • Vehicle Smoke
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Green Transport:
• Petrol and diesel engines burn fossil fuels and release thick black smoke, carbon monoxide, and toxic soot particles. Bicycles and electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe smoke, keeping the city air fresh and breathable.
• Petrol and diesel engines burn fossil fuels and release thick black smoke, carbon monoxide, and toxic soot particles. Bicycles and electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe smoke, keeping the city air fresh and breathable.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Fossil fuel emissions versus zero emissions explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 6 ('Living in Harmony'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Living in Harmony'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Living in Harmony'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Urban Wildlife Conflict: The Glass Window Hazard
Real-Life Context: A newly built glass office building in town reports that dozens of sunbirds and kingfishers crash into the clear glass facade every week because the glass reflects surrounding trees and blue sky like an open path.
Analytical Task: How can the building management and local children solve this hazard to live in harmony with urban birds?
The bird collision problem occurs because birds perceive the glass reflection as continuous sky or foliage. To eliminate this hazard: (1) Apply frosted, patterned, or silhouette stickers (such as falcon decals or dense dot arrays spaced 5 cm apart) on external window panes so birds recognize a barrier. (2) Install outdoor blinds or lightweight nylon netting. (3) Turn off unnecessary bright internal lights at night to prevent disorienting migratory birds.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Understanding reflection hazards, practical non-invasive deterrents (window decals, netting), compassionate architectural ethics (4 Marks).
7
Theme 3: Water, Food and Well-being • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 7: Water — A Precious Gift
Water Cycle, Sources of Fresh Water, Scarcity, Conservation Techniques, and Rainwater Harvesting
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Natural freshwater sources: Rain, rivers, lakes, ponds, springs, and underground wells.
- States of water: Solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (water vapor) in the continuous water cycle.
- Everyday water wastage vs water conservation: Turning off running taps, bucket baths.
- Traditional and modern rainwater harvesting: Rooftop collection, baolis (stepwells), and percolation pits.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Describe the three key stages of the water cycle: Evaporation, Condensation, and Precipitation.
Water Science & The Water Cycle
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
The continuous movement of water on Earth is governed by three primary stages:
1. Evaporation: Solar heat warms up surface water in oceans, lakes, and rivers, converting liquid water into invisible water vapor that rises into the atmosphere.
2. Condensation: As water vapor climbs higher into cooler atmospheric regions, it cools down and condenses into microscopic water droplets that cluster together to form fluffy clouds.
3. Precipitation: When clouds grow heavy and cool, the accumulated water droplets fall back to the ground as rain, hail, or snow, replenishing water bodies.
1. Evaporation: Solar heat warms up surface water in oceans, lakes, and rivers, converting liquid water into invisible water vapor that rises into the atmosphere.
2. Condensation: As water vapor climbs higher into cooler atmospheric regions, it cools down and condenses into microscopic water droplets that cluster together to form fluffy clouds.
3. Precipitation: When clouds grow heavy and cool, the accumulated water droplets fall back to the ground as rain, hail, or snow, replenishing water bodies.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear physical explanation of evaporation and condensation
2 Marks
Description of precipitation completing the hydrological cycle
1 Mark
Q2
Suggest four practical habits that can save liters of clean water in a school every day.
Water Conservation Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Fix Leaking Taps: Report dripping taps to school maintenance immediately; a slow drip wastes over 20 liters of water daily.
2. Turn Off Taps While Soap-Washing: Shut the tap while lathering hands with soap or brushing teeth instead of letting water run continuously.
3. Repurpose Leftover Drinking Water: Empty unused water from student water bottles into flowerbeds or potted plants rather than dumping it down the sink drain.
4. Install Aerators / Push-Taps: Use push-button taps that automatically stop flow after 5 seconds in restrooms.
2. Turn Off Taps While Soap-Washing: Shut the tap while lathering hands with soap or brushing teeth instead of letting water run continuously.
3. Repurpose Leftover Drinking Water: Empty unused water from student water bottles into flowerbeds or potted plants rather than dumping it down the sink drain.
4. Install Aerators / Push-Taps: Use push-button taps that automatically stop flow after 5 seconds in restrooms.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Four distinct, actionable water-saving habits
2 Marks
Practical applicability to school routines
1 Mark
Q3
What is rooftop rainwater harvesting and why is it essential in cities?
Rainwater Harvesting
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rooftop rainwater harvesting is the technique of capturing clean rainwater that falls on building roofs, passing it through sand-gravel filters, and diverting it into underground storage tanks or percolation recharge pits.
It is essential because it recharges declining groundwater levels, prevents city waterlogging during heavy monsoon downpours, and provides fresh water during drought seasons.
It is essential because it recharges declining groundwater levels, prevents city waterlogging during heavy monsoon downpours, and provides fresh water during drought seasons.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of rooftop rainwater collection and filtration
1 Mark
Benefits of groundwater recharge and flood prevention
1 Mark
Q4
Classify the following sources of water into 'Natural Sources' and 'Man-Made Sources':
Rain, Tube well, River, Overhead water tank, Lake, Hand pump, Ocean, Dam. Water Sources • Natural vs Man-Made 4 Marks
Rain, Tube well, River, Overhead water tank, Lake, Hand pump, Ocean, Dam. Water Sources • Natural vs Man-Made 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Natural Sources: Rain, River, Lake, Ocean.
• Man-Made Sources: Tube well, Overhead water tank, Hand pump, Dam.
• Natural Sources: Rain, River, Lake, Ocean.
• Man-Made Sources: Tube well, Overhead water tank, Hand pump, Dam.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 natural sources correctly identified
2.0 M
All 4 man-made sources correctly identified
2.0 M
Q5
What is Rainwater Harvesting, and how does it help a community facing water shortage?
Rainwater Harvesting • Conservation Technique
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rainwater Harvesting Explained:
• Rainwater Harvesting is the method of collecting and storing pure rainwater that falls on rooftops and open grounds instead of letting it run off into dirty drains.
• Benefits: The collected water is filtered and stored in underground cisterns (tankas) for drinking, or channeled into recharge pits to raise the groundwater level for dry summer months.
• Rainwater Harvesting is the method of collecting and storing pure rainwater that falls on rooftops and open grounds instead of letting it run off into dirty drains.
• Benefits: The collected water is filtered and stored in underground cisterns (tankas) for drinking, or channeled into recharge pits to raise the groundwater level for dry summer months.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear operational definition of collecting roof runoff
1.5 M
Groundwater recharge and summer storage benefits
1.5 M
Q6
Suggest three practical ways in which a Class 3 student can save water at home every day.
Home Water Audit • Preventing Wastage
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water-Saving Habits:
1. Turn off the tap while brushing teeth and use a mug of water for rinsing instead of running water.
2. Bathe using a bucket and mug instead of taking long overhead showers.
3. Reuse the wastewater from the kitchen water purifier (RO filter) to mop floors and water garden plants.
1. Turn off the tap while brushing teeth and use a mug of water for rinsing instead of running water.
2. Bathe using a bucket and mug instead of taking long overhead showers.
3. Reuse the wastewater from the kitchen water purifier (RO filter) to mop floors and water garden plants.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three actionable, realistic daily water conservation habits
3.0 M
Q7
Create a catchy slogan to encourage people to save water.
Water Slogan • Creative Expression
1 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Catchy Water Slogan:
• 'Save Every Drop Today, To Keep Drought Away!' (or 'जल है तो कल है — पानी की हर बूँद अनमोल है!')
• 'Save Every Drop Today, To Keep Drought Away!' (or 'जल है तो कल है — पानी की हर बूँद अनमोल है!')
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Catchy, meaningful, and original slogan
1.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 7 ('Water — A Precious Gift'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Water — A Precious Gift'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Water — A Precious Gift'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Community Drought Mitigation: Reviving a Village Stepwell
Real-Life Context: A drought-prone village faced acute drinking water shortages during summers because tube wells had dried up. The village panchayat cleaned and restored an ancient 200-year-old stone stepwell (baoli) that had been abandoned and filled with plastic rubbish.
Analytical Task: Analyze why traditional water structures like stepwells (baolis) are scientifically superior to deep borewells in drought-prone areas.
Traditional stepwells (baolis) are architectural masterpieces of natural ecological engineering. Unlike deep borewells that recklessly extract fossil groundwater until aquifers collapse, stepwells rely on seasonal rainwater runoff and shallow seepage. The wide porous stone walls allow rainwater to infiltrate naturally, filter sediment through surrounding sandy soil layers, and maintain a perennial subterranean water pool without electricity or motors. Reviving baolis recharges local aquifers and provides community-controlled water resilience.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Traditional water wisdom vs deep borehole depletion, ecological percolation, sustainable community water management (4 Marks).
8
Theme 3: Water, Food and Well-being • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 8: Food We Eat
Nutritional Food Groups, Balanced Diet, Seasonal Regional Foods, and Avoiding Food Waste
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The three primary food groups: Energy-giving foods, body-building foods, and protective foods.
- Components of a balanced thali: Cereals (rotis/rice), pulses (dal), seasonal vegetables, curds, and salad.
- Regional and cultural food varieties across India based on local climate and agriculture.
- Food hygiene: Washing vegetables before peeling, eating fresh cooked meals, and avoiding street junk food.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Classify our food into three major groups and explain the health benefits of each group.
Nutritional Classification
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Our food is divided into three essential functional groups:
1. Energy-Giving Foods (Carbohydrates & Fats): Rice, wheat, potatoes, bananas, butter, and nuts provide steady stamina for running, studying, and physical play.
2. Body-Building Foods (Proteins): Pulses, milk, paneer, curd, chickpeas, and eggs supply essential building blocks to repair cells, build muscles, and help young children grow taller.
3. Protective Foods (Vitamins & Minerals): Fresh green vegetables (spinach, carrots) and citrus fruits (oranges, amla) build robust immune defenses to shield our bodies from infections, coughs, and illnesses.
1. Energy-Giving Foods (Carbohydrates & Fats): Rice, wheat, potatoes, bananas, butter, and nuts provide steady stamina for running, studying, and physical play.
2. Body-Building Foods (Proteins): Pulses, milk, paneer, curd, chickpeas, and eggs supply essential building blocks to repair cells, build muscles, and help young children grow taller.
3. Protective Foods (Vitamins & Minerals): Fresh green vegetables (spinach, carrots) and citrus fruits (oranges, amla) build robust immune defenses to shield our bodies from infections, coughs, and illnesses.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear identification of three nutritional food groups
1.5 Marks
Specific health benefits and daily food examples for each
1.5 Marks
Q2
Why should we avoid eating packaged junk foods (chips, cold drinks, instant noodles) on a daily basis?
Healthy Eating Habits vs Junk Food
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Packaged junk foods contain excessive quantities of refined white flour (maida), unhealthy trans-fats, artificial preservatives, chemical colors, and refined sugar, while lacking dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Regular consumption leads to dental cavities, childhood obesity, sluggish digestion, and weakened immunity.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of harmful components (maida, excess salt/sugar/trans-fats)
1.5 Marks
Impact on physical vitality, teeth, and immunity
1.5 Marks
Q3
What can families do with leftover cooked food to prevent it from spoiling or being thrown in the garbage?
Food Preservation & Anti-Waste
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Safe Refrigeration: Store leftover curries and rice in clean airtight containers inside the refrigerator and consume them within 24 hours.
2. Creative Culinary Repurposing: Transform leftover rotis into delicious vegetable rolls or bread upma, and use leftover boiled rice for lemon rice or vegetable fried rice.
3. Sharing with Those in Need: Pack excess untouched food hygienically and share it with community helpers or food distribution drives.
2. Creative Culinary Repurposing: Transform leftover rotis into delicious vegetable rolls or bread upma, and use leftover boiled rice for lemon rice or vegetable fried rice.
3. Sharing with Those in Need: Pack excess untouched food hygienically and share it with community helpers or food distribution drives.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Practical storage and hygienic handling
1 Mark
Creative culinary repurposing or community donation
1 Mark
Q4
Classify the following food items into 'Obtained from Plants' and 'Obtained from Animals':
Milk, Rice, Honey, Apple, Egg, Spinach, Ghee, Mustard oil. Food Origins • Plant vs Animal Sources 4 Marks
Milk, Rice, Honey, Apple, Egg, Spinach, Ghee, Mustard oil. Food Origins • Plant vs Animal Sources 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Food Origin Classification:
• Obtained from Plants: Rice (cereal), Apple (fruit), Spinach (leafy vegetable), Mustard oil (seeds).
• Obtained from Animals: Milk (cows/buffaloes), Honey (bees), Egg (hens), Ghee (clarified butter from milk).
• Obtained from Plants: Rice (cereal), Apple (fruit), Spinach (leafy vegetable), Mustard oil (seeds).
• Obtained from Animals: Milk (cows/buffaloes), Honey (bees), Egg (hens), Ghee (clarified butter from milk).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Four correct plant-origin foods
2.0 M
Four correct animal-origin foods
2.0 M
Q5
Match each Indian region with its staple traditional food dish:
• Punjab: [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice]
• South India (Tamil Nadu): [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice]
• Rajasthan: [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice]
• West Bengal: [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice] Regional Indian Thalis • Diversity 4 Marks
• Punjab: [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice]
• South India (Tamil Nadu): [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice]
• Rajasthan: [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice]
• West Bengal: [Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag, Dosa & Sambhar, Dal Baati Churma, Fish Curry & Rice] Regional Indian Thalis • Diversity 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Matching:
• Punjab: Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag
• South India: Dosa & Sambhar (with coconut chutney)
• Rajasthan: Dal Baati Churma
• West Bengal: Fish Curry & Rice (Macher Jhol)
• Punjab: Makki ki Roti & Sarson ka Saag
• South India: Dosa & Sambhar (with coconut chutney)
• Rajasthan: Dal Baati Churma
• West Bengal: Fish Curry & Rice (Macher Jhol)
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct regional dish matched for all 4 states
4.0 M
Q6
Describe how to prepare a healthy sprouted moong salad without using fire or a gas stove.
Fireless Cooking Activity • Sprouted Salad
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Fireless Sprouted Moong Salad:
1. Take a cup of sprouted green moong beans in a mixing bowl.
2. Add finely chopped cucumber, tomato, and fresh coriander leaves.
3. Squeeze half a fresh lemon for tangy Vitamin C.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and roasted cumin powder (chaat masala), mix well with a spoon, and serve fresh.
1. Take a cup of sprouted green moong beans in a mixing bowl.
2. Add finely chopped cucumber, tomato, and fresh coriander leaves.
3. Squeeze half a fresh lemon for tangy Vitamin C.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and roasted cumin powder (chaat masala), mix well with a spoon, and serve fresh.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Sprouts and chopped vegetables mentioned
1.5 M
Lemon and spices seasoning without fire
1.5 M
Q7
Why do our grandmothers add a thick layer of mustard oil and salt when making mango pickles?
Food Preservation • Traditional Methods
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Science of Pickling:
• Salt draws out moisture and kills bacteria, while mustard oil forms an airtight barrier over the raw mangoes that blocks airborne microbes and fungi, preserving the pickle fresh for over a year.
• Salt draws out moisture and kills bacteria, while mustard oil forms an airtight barrier over the raw mangoes that blocks airborne microbes and fungi, preserving the pickle fresh for over a year.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Role of salt (drying) and oil (barrier) in food preservation
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 8 ('Food We Eat'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Food We Eat'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Food We Eat'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
School Mid-Day Meal Quality and Nutritional Balanced Plates
Real-Life Context: In a primary school, many students routinely leave green leafy vegetables and lentils on their plates, eating only plain rice and potato chips. The school health nurse notices frequent iron-deficiency fatigue and poor night vision among several students.
Analytical Task: Design an attractive, child-friendly nutrition strategy to encourage Class 3 students to enjoy iron-rich greens, carrots, and lentils daily.
To make nutritious foods exciting for young children: (1) Colorful Rainbow Plates: Challenge students to create a 'Rainbow Lunch' where their plate must feature at least three bright colors (orange carrots/papaya for Vitamin A, deep green spinach/fenugreek for iron, and yellow lentils for protein). (2) Interactive School Kitchen Garden: Allow children to sow, water, and harvest spinach and coriander leaves themselves; children take immense pride in eating food they grew. (3) Creative Cooking: Blend iron-rich spinach into colorful green rotis ('Hulk Parathas') or incorporate lentils into crunchy vegetable cutlets.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Understanding micronutrient deficiencies (Vitamin A and iron), creative food presentation, school gardens, behavioral nudges (4 Marks).
9
Theme 3: Water, Food and Well-being • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 9: Staying Healthy and Happy
Personal Hygiene, Physical Exercise, Yoga Asanas, Adequate Sleep, and Mental Well-being
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Daily personal hygiene habits: Brushing teeth twice, bathing, washing hands with soap, clipping nails.
- Physical fitness: Outdoor sports, skipping, swimming, and basic yoga postures (Tadasana, Vrikshasana).
- Rest and recovery: 8 to 9 hours of uninterrupted night sleep for cognitive development.
- Emotional hygiene: Expressing feelings openly, practicing mindfulness breathing, and limiting screen time.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What are the six critical steps of proper handwashing with soap, and when must we wash our hands?
Handwashing Protocol
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
When to Wash: Before eating meals, after using the restroom, after playing outdoors with pets, and after coughing or blowing one's nose.
6 Steps of Effective Handwashing (20 Seconds):
1. Wet hands with clean running water and apply soap.
2. Rub palms together to create rich lather.
3. Rub the back of each hand with interlaced fingers.
4. Clean between fingers and under fingernails.
5. Grip and rotate thumbs in palms.
6. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry with a clean personal towel.
6 Steps of Effective Handwashing (20 Seconds):
1. Wet hands with clean running water and apply soap.
2. Rub palms together to create rich lather.
3. Rub the back of each hand with interlaced fingers.
4. Clean between fingers and under fingernails.
5. Grip and rotate thumbs in palms.
6. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry with a clean personal towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of critical handwashing times
1 Mark
Detailed 6-step technique covering palms, fingers, and nails
2 Marks
Q2
Why is adequate sleep essential for school children, and how does excessive mobile screen time harm health?
Sleep & Screen Time Balance
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
During deep sleep (8 to 9 hours nightly), the child's brain consolidates memory, releases growth hormones, and rejuvenates tired muscles.
Harmful Effects of Excessive Screen Time:
• Blue light from phone and tablet screens disrupts melatonin production, making it difficult to fall asleep.
• Sitting motionless with digital gadgets causes poor spinal posture, weak vision (myopia), and obesity.
• It isolates children from real outdoor social play and creative hobbies.
Harmful Effects of Excessive Screen Time:
• Blue light from phone and tablet screens disrupts melatonin production, making it difficult to fall asleep.
• Sitting motionless with digital gadgets causes poor spinal posture, weak vision (myopia), and obesity.
• It isolates children from real outdoor social play and creative hobbies.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Physiological importance of 8-9 hours sleep for memory/growth
1.5 Marks
Physical and psychological hazards of screen addiction
1.5 Marks
Q3
Describe the correct sitting posture while reading or writing at a study desk.
Posture and Spinal Health
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Keep the back straight with the spine resting against the chair backrest. Feet should touch the floor flatly, shoulders should remain relaxed, and the book should be kept at a distance of 30 cm from the eyes without hunching the neck forward.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate physical alignment of spine, feet, and eye distance
2 Marks
Q4
Explain why and how we should wash our hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. List three critical moments when hand washing is compulsory.
Hygiene Protocol • WHO 6-Step Hand Washing
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Hand Hygiene Protocol:
• Soap breaks down oily dirt and viral membranes, lifting disease-causing germs off our skin so running water can rinse them away.
Three Compulsory Moments:
1. Before eating meals or touching snacks.
2. Immediately after using the toilet/washroom.
3. After returning home from playing outdoors or touching pets.
• Soap breaks down oily dirt and viral membranes, lifting disease-causing germs off our skin so running water can rinse them away.
Three Compulsory Moments:
1. Before eating meals or touching snacks.
2. Immediately after using the toilet/washroom.
3. After returning home from playing outdoors or touching pets.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Scientific rationale for soap destroying germs
1.5 M
Three compulsory everyday moments named
1.5 M
Q5
Why do cavities form in teeth, and what two rules prevent tooth decay?
Oral Health • Dental Care Rules
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Dental Hygiene:
• Cause of Cavities: Sugary food particles stuck between teeth feed bacteria, which produce acids that erode tooth enamel and cause painful cavities.
Two Preventive Rules:
1. Brush teeth thoroughly twice daily (once in the morning and once before bedtime at night).
2. Rinse mouth with clean water after every meal or snack.
• Cause of Cavities: Sugary food particles stuck between teeth feed bacteria, which produce acids that erode tooth enamel and cause painful cavities.
Two Preventive Rules:
1. Brush teeth thoroughly twice daily (once in the morning and once before bedtime at night).
2. Rinse mouth with clean water after every meal or snack.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Bacteria and acid decay explained
1.5 M
Two daily preventive dental rules
1.5 M
Q6
What is good posture while sitting at a study desk? What happens if you slouch continuously?
Healthy Body Posture • Spine Health
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Posture & Ergonomics:
• Good Posture: Sit upright with your back straight against the chair, shoulders relaxed, feet flat on the floor, and books at comfortable eye level.
• Harm of Slouching: Continuous bending and slouching strains neck muscles, causes chronic back pain, and compresses the ribcage, reducing breathing capacity.
• Good Posture: Sit upright with your back straight against the chair, shoulders relaxed, feet flat on the floor, and books at comfortable eye level.
• Harm of Slouching: Continuous bending and slouching strains neck muscles, causes chronic back pain, and compresses the ribcage, reducing breathing capacity.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct sitting posture described
1.5 M
Health consequences of slouching explained
1.5 M
Q7
Why should growing children sleep for 8 to 9 hours every night?
Screen Time & Sleep • Mental Well-Being
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rest and Growth:
• During deep sleep, the body produces human growth hormone, repairs tired muscles, consolidates memory and learning from the school day, and boosts the immune system against diseases.
• During deep sleep, the body produces human growth hormone, repairs tired muscles, consolidates memory and learning from the school day, and boosts the immune system against diseases.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Growth hormone and brain memory consolidation explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 9 ('Staying Healthy and Happy'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Staying Healthy and Happy'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Staying Healthy and Happy'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Mental Fitness: Calming Anxiety with Mindfulness Breathing
Real-Life Context: During the annual sports day running race, 8-year-old Rohan feels his heart beating very fast, his palms sweating, and his stomach churning with nervous fear right before the whistle blows.
Analytical Task: What simple breathing exercise (Pranayama) and positive self-talk can Rohan use to calm his nervous system and perform happily?
Rohan can practice the '4-4-4 Box Breathing Technique': Inhale deeply through the nose for 4 counts, hold the breath gently for 4 counts, and exhale slowly through the mouth like blowing out a candle for 4 counts. Repeating this three times activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowers the elevated heart rate, and calms muscle trembling. Combined with encouraging positive self-talk ('I have practiced well, I will do my best, and participating with joy is what truly matters'), Rohan can channel nervousness into focused energy.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Physiological understanding of anxiety, practical breathwork technique (Pranayama), positive emotional reframing (4 Marks).
10
Theme 4: Materials, Making and Environment • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 10: This World of Things
Exploring Everyday Materials: Wood, Clay, Metal, Glass, Fabric, and Their Distinct Properties
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Classification of materials based on origin: Natural (wood, cotton, stone) and human-made (plastic, glass, nylon).
- Properties of materials: Hard vs soft, rough vs smooth, opaque vs transparent, waterproof vs absorbent.
- Matching properties to practical uses: Why umbrellas use waterproof fabric and cooking pots use metals.
- The lifecycle of materials: Mining, crafting, usage, wear and tear, and disposal.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Why are cooking frying pans made of metal (like iron or aluminum) while their handles are made of wood or Bakelite plastic?
Material Properties & Suitability
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
This design relies on heat conduction properties:
1. Metal Body (Pan): Metals are excellent conductors of heat. They absorb heat rapidly from the stove flame and distribute it evenly across the base to cook food quickly.
2. Wood / Bakelite Handle: Wood and Bakelite are bad conductors of heat (thermal insulators). They remain cool even when the pan is piping hot, allowing us to hold the pan safely without burning our hands.
1. Metal Body (Pan): Metals are excellent conductors of heat. They absorb heat rapidly from the stove flame and distribute it evenly across the base to cook food quickly.
2. Wood / Bakelite Handle: Wood and Bakelite are bad conductors of heat (thermal insulators). They remain cool even when the pan is piping hot, allowing us to hold the pan safely without burning our hands.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Explanation of metal as a good thermal conductor
1.5 Marks
Explanation of wood/Bakelite as an insulator for burn safety
1.5 Marks
Q2
Distinguish between transparent, translucent, and opaque materials with two practical household examples of each.
Transparency & Light Properties
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Transparent: Materials that allow light to pass through completely, enabling us to see clearly across them (e.g., Clear window glass, pure drinking water).
• Translucent: Materials that allow only partial light to pass through, creating blurred or hazy vision (e.g., Butter paper, frosted bathroom glass).
• Opaque: Materials that block light completely, casting a dark shadow and preventing vision across them (e.g., Wooden door, brick wall, metal plate).
• Translucent: Materials that allow only partial light to pass through, creating blurred or hazy vision (e.g., Butter paper, frosted bathroom glass).
• Opaque: Materials that block light completely, casting a dark shadow and preventing vision across them (e.g., Wooden door, brick wall, metal plate).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear physical definitions of transparent, translucent, and opaque
1.5 Marks
Accurate household examples for each category
1.5 Marks
Q3
Why do we wear cotton clothes in hot summers and synthetic raincoats in monsoons?
Absorbency & Waterproofing
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Cotton is a natural porous fiber that absorbs body sweat easily and allows air circulation to keep our skin cool through evaporation. Synthetic raincoat fabrics (like rubberized nylon or PVC) are completely waterproof and non-porous, preventing rain droplets from soaking through to our clothes.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cotton's sweat absorption and breathability
1 Mark
Raincoat fabric's waterproof barrier property
1 Mark
Q4
Match each material with its characteristic property:
• Glass: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water]
• Rubber: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water]
• Iron: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water]
• Cotton cloth: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water] Material Science • Everyday Properties 4 Marks
• Glass: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water]
• Rubber: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water]
• Iron: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water]
• Cotton cloth: [Transparent and breaks easily, Flexible and waterproof, Hard and can rust, Soft and absorbs water] Material Science • Everyday Properties 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Material Properties:
• Glass: Transparent and brittle (breaks easily)
• Rubber: Flexible, elastic, and waterproof
• Iron: Hard, strong, and can rust if left wet
• Cotton cloth: Soft, breathable, and absorbs water
• Glass: Transparent and brittle (breaks easily)
• Rubber: Flexible, elastic, and waterproof
• Iron: Hard, strong, and can rust if left wet
• Cotton cloth: Soft, breathable, and absorbs water
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct matching for all 4 material properties
4.0 M
Q5
In an experiment testing buoyancy in a bucket of water:
(a) Why does an iron needle sink, but a hollow iron bowl float?
(b) Why does a dry sponge float initially but sink after some time? Float or Sink Experiment • Density 3 Marks
(a) Why does an iron needle sink, but a hollow iron bowl float?
(b) Why does a dry sponge float initially but sink after some time? Float or Sink Experiment • Density 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Buoyancy Physics:
(a) Iron Needle vs Bowl:
• An iron needle is solid and dense, displacing very little water, so it sinks.
• A hollow iron bowl contains trapped air inside its curved shape, which makes its overall weight lighter than the large volume of water it pushes aside, allowing it to float.
(b) Sponge Behavior:
• A dry sponge has tiny open pores filled with air, making it very light so it floats.
• As water fills all the pores, displacing the air, the sponge becomes heavy and eventually sinks.
(a) Iron Needle vs Bowl:
• An iron needle is solid and dense, displacing very little water, so it sinks.
• A hollow iron bowl contains trapped air inside its curved shape, which makes its overall weight lighter than the large volume of water it pushes aside, allowing it to float.
(b) Sponge Behavior:
• A dry sponge has tiny open pores filled with air, making it very light so it floats.
• As water fills all the pores, displacing the air, the sponge becomes heavy and eventually sinks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water displacement and air volume explained for bowl
1.5 M
Pore air displacement explained for wet sponge
1.5 M
Q6
Which of the following items will be attracted to a magnet?
Iron paper clip, Wooden pencil, Steel safety pin, Plastic eraser, Copper coin. Magnetic Properties • Materials Test 3 Marks
Iron paper clip, Wooden pencil, Steel safety pin, Plastic eraser, Copper coin. Magnetic Properties • Materials Test 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Magnetic Test:
• Attracted to Magnet: Iron paper clip, Steel safety pin (contain iron/steel).
• Not Attracted: Wooden pencil, Plastic eraser, Copper coin (non-magnetic materials).
• Attracted to Magnet: Iron paper clip, Steel safety pin (contain iron/steel).
• Not Attracted: Wooden pencil, Plastic eraser, Copper coin (non-magnetic materials).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct magnetic items identified
1.5 M
Correct non-magnetic items identified
1.5 M
Q7
Differentiate between natural materials and synthetic (man-made) materials with one example of each.
Natural vs Synthetic Materials
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Definitions & Examples:
• Natural Material: Obtained directly from nature (plants, animals, earth) without chemical modification (e.g., Wood, Cotton, Wool, Clay).
• Synthetic Material: Created artificially by humans in factories through chemical processing (e.g., Plastic, Nylon, Polythene).
• Natural Material: Obtained directly from nature (plants, animals, earth) without chemical modification (e.g., Wood, Cotton, Wool, Clay).
• Synthetic Material: Created artificially by humans in factories through chemical processing (e.g., Plastic, Nylon, Polythene).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear contrast with valid examples
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 10 ('This World of Things'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'This World of Things'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'This World of Things'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Sustainable Material Substitution: Moving Beyond Single-Use Plastics
Real-Life Context: A town council notices that drainage pipes are repeatedly clogged with thin single-use plastic grocery bags, plastic straws, and thermocol plates, causing artificial floods during monsoon rain showers.
Analytical Task: Apply your scientific understanding of material properties to recommend biodegradable, eco-friendly substitutes for plastic bags, cups, and plates.
Plastic is synthetic, waterproof, and non-biodegradable; it chokes drains and persists in nature for hundreds of years. We can substitute plastic with materials that match functional needs while being completely compostable: (1) Jute and Cotton: Strong, reusable woven fibers for shopping bags. (2) Dried Areca Nut Palm Leaf (Pattal): Naturally pressed sturdy, leak-proof plates for community feasts that biodegrade into rich soil compost within weeks. (3) Terracotta Kulhads: Porous earthenware cups that impart a pleasant earthy aroma and break down safely back into natural clay soil. (4) Paper or Bamboo Straws: Organic plant fibers replacing plastic drinking tubes.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Critique of non-biodegradability, specific sustainable replacements (jute, areca palm leaves, clay kulhads), soil biodegradability (4 Marks).
11
Theme 4: Materials, Making and Environment • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 11: Making Things
Hands-on Crafting: Pottery, Weaving, Origami Paper Folding, Carpentry, and Simple Tools
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The stages of traditional pottery: Digging clay, kneading dough, throwing on the wheel, drying, and kiln baking.
- Weaving fundamentals: Warp and weft threads intersecting on a handloom to produce woven fabric.
- The joy and geometry of paper folding (Origami): Making paper cups, boats, and hats without glue.
- Appreciation of skilled physical labor and the Dignity of Labor (shram-shradha) in our communities.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What are the step-by-step stages involved in making an earthen pot (matka)?
The Art of Pottery
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Making an earthen clay pot involves skilled artisanal steps:
1. Clay Preparation: Digging fine sticky clay from pond beds, filtering out gravel, and kneading it with water into smooth, pliable dough.
2. Spinning on the Wheel: Placing the clay lump on the center of the spinning potter's wheel (chak) and shaping the hollow pot using wet thumbs and palms.
3. Tapping with Mallet (Thapa): Beating the outer surface gently with a wooden paddle while supporting the inside with a stone anvil to widen the round belly.
4. Sun-Drying & Baking: Drying raw pots in the sun and firing them inside a brick kiln (bhatti) fueled with wood and husk so they turn strong, hard, and reddish-brown.
1. Clay Preparation: Digging fine sticky clay from pond beds, filtering out gravel, and kneading it with water into smooth, pliable dough.
2. Spinning on the Wheel: Placing the clay lump on the center of the spinning potter's wheel (chak) and shaping the hollow pot using wet thumbs and palms.
3. Tapping with Mallet (Thapa): Beating the outer surface gently with a wooden paddle while supporting the inside with a stone anvil to widen the round belly.
4. Sun-Drying & Baking: Drying raw pots in the sun and firing them inside a brick kiln (bhatti) fueled with wood and husk so they turn strong, hard, and reddish-brown.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Sequential progression from kneading to wheel shaping
1.5 Marks
Tapping and kiln firing for durability
1.5 Marks
Q2
What do the terms 'warp' and 'weft' mean in the process of weaving cloth?
Weaving Fundamentals
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
In textile weaving:
• Warp (Tana): The set of lengthwise parallel threads stretched tightly across the loom frame from top to bottom.
• Weft (Bana): The crosswise thread carried back and forth through a shuttle, passing over and under alternate warp yarns to lock them into tight woven fabric.
• Warp (Tana): The set of lengthwise parallel threads stretched tightly across the loom frame from top to bottom.
• Weft (Bana): The crosswise thread carried back and forth through a shuttle, passing over and under alternate warp yarns to lock them into tight woven fabric.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear description of longitudinal warp yarns
1.5 Marks
Description of transverse weft yarns forming woven fabric
1.5 Marks
Q3
Why should we respect skilled workers like carpenters, tailors, potters, and cobblers?
Dignity of Labor
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
We must respect these artisans because they possess specialized technical skills, work diligently with their hands, and provide the indispensable daily necessities of civilized living—our clothes, furniture, footwear, and cooking utensils. Every honest occupation carries profound dignity (shram-shradha).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Appreciation of artisanal skills and indispensable daily goods
1.5 Marks
Value of dignity of labor
0.5 Marks
Q4
Match the craftsman with the utility item he creates and the primary raw material used:
• Potter (Kumhar): [Clay -> Earthen pots/diyas, Wood -> Chairs/tables, Cotton yarn -> Handloom cloth]
• Carpenter (Badhai): [Clay -> Earthen pots/diyas, Wood -> Chairs/tables, Cotton yarn -> Handloom cloth]
• Weaver (Bunkar): [Clay -> Earthen pots/diyas, Wood -> Chairs/tables, Cotton yarn -> Handloom cloth] Handicrafts & Tools • Artisans at Work 3 Marks
• Potter (Kumhar): [Clay -> Earthen pots/diyas, Wood -> Chairs/tables, Cotton yarn -> Handloom cloth]
• Carpenter (Badhai): [Clay -> Earthen pots/diyas, Wood -> Chairs/tables, Cotton yarn -> Handloom cloth]
• Weaver (Bunkar): [Clay -> Earthen pots/diyas, Wood -> Chairs/tables, Cotton yarn -> Handloom cloth] Handicrafts & Tools • Artisans at Work 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Craftsmen and Utility Items:
• Potter: Uses natural clay on a potter's wheel to create earthen pots (matkas), bowls, and festive diyas.
• Carpenter: Uses seasoned wood, saw, and chisels to make chairs, tables, doors, and window frames.
• Weaver: Uses cotton yarn on a handloom (khadi) to weave sarees, dupattas, and blankets.
• Potter: Uses natural clay on a potter's wheel to create earthen pots (matkas), bowls, and festive diyas.
• Carpenter: Uses seasoned wood, saw, and chisels to make chairs, tables, doors, and window frames.
• Weaver: Uses cotton yarn on a handloom (khadi) to weave sarees, dupattas, and blankets.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct matching for Potter
1.0 M
Correct matching for Carpenter
1.0 M
Correct matching for Weaver
1.0 M
Q5
Explain how to make a paper woven mat using two different colored sheets of paper.
Paper Weaving Activity • Textile Model
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Paper Weaving Mat Guide:
1. Base Sheet (Warp): Take Sheet 1 (blue), fold it in half, and cut parallel vertical slits 1 cm apart, leaving a 2 cm border uncut at the top edge.
2. Strips (Weft): Take Sheet 2 (yellow) and cut it completely into long strips 1 cm wide.
3. Weaving: Weave the yellow strips horizontally through the blue slits, alternating 'over one, under one'. For the next strip, alternate 'under one, over one'.
4. Finishing: Paste the strip ends along the border with glue to produce a colorful woven chequered pattern.
1. Base Sheet (Warp): Take Sheet 1 (blue), fold it in half, and cut parallel vertical slits 1 cm apart, leaving a 2 cm border uncut at the top edge.
2. Strips (Weft): Take Sheet 2 (yellow) and cut it completely into long strips 1 cm wide.
3. Weaving: Weave the yellow strips horizontally through the blue slits, alternating 'over one, under one'. For the next strip, alternate 'under one, over one'.
4. Finishing: Paste the strip ends along the border with glue to produce a colorful woven chequered pattern.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cutting vertical slits on folded base sheet
1.0 M
Alternating over-under weaving pattern described
1.5 M
Gluing borders to secure mat
0.5 M
Q6
How have tools helped humans build shelter and live comfortably? Give two examples.
Evolution of Tools • Primitive to Modern
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Tools & Human Progress:
1. Agricultural Tools: Plows, sickles, and tractors allowed humans to clear land, plant large crops, and produce abundant food instead of hunting constantly.
2. Construction Tools: Hammers, saws, levels, and cranes allowed humans to cut stone and timber to construct weatherproof multi-story houses.
1. Agricultural Tools: Plows, sickles, and tractors allowed humans to clear land, plant large crops, and produce abundant food instead of hunting constantly.
2. Construction Tools: Hammers, saws, levels, and cranes allowed humans to cut stone and timber to construct weatherproof multi-story houses.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two historical examples of tools improving life
2.0 M
Q7
Why is hand-woven cloth (Khadi) considered a symbol of self-reliance in India?
Craft Appreciation • Respecting Manual Work
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Cultural Heritage:
• Mahatma Gandhi promoted Khadi during India's freedom struggle to encourage villages to spin their own cotton yarn on the charkha, wear homemade clothes, boycott foreign mill cloth, and achieve economic dignity.
• Mahatma Gandhi promoted Khadi during India's freedom struggle to encourage villages to spin their own cotton yarn on the charkha, wear homemade clothes, boycott foreign mill cloth, and achieve economic dignity.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Gandhian philosophy of charkha and self-reliance explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 11 ('Making Things'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Making Things'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Making Things'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Hands-on Experiential Learning (SUPW): Making a Recycled Bird Feeder
Real-Life Context: During an art and craft activity, children are instructed to make useful everyday items from discarded domestic containers instead of purchasing expensive new plastic items.
Analytical Task: Write step-by-step instructions for Class 3 children to create a functional bird feeder using a used cardboard juice carton and two wooden pencils.
Materials Required: Empty 1-liter juice carton, two unsharpened wooden pencils, scissors, string, bird seeds.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse and Dry: Thoroughly wash the juice carton with clean water and let it air-dry completely.
2. Cut Feeding Windows: With adult supervision, cut two 3 cm square openings on opposite sides, about 4 cm above the carton base.
3. Insert Perches: Poke small holes just below each window and push the pencils straight through the carton to serve as perches for visiting sparrows.
4. Hang and Fill: Punch two small holes in the top folded flap, thread sturdy string through, fill the base with grain seeds, and hang the feeder on a shaded balcony branch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse and Dry: Thoroughly wash the juice carton with clean water and let it air-dry completely.
2. Cut Feeding Windows: With adult supervision, cut two 3 cm square openings on opposite sides, about 4 cm above the carton base.
3. Insert Perches: Poke small holes just below each window and push the pencils straight through the carton to serve as perches for visiting sparrows.
4. Hang and Fill: Punch two small holes in the top folded flap, thread sturdy string through, fill the base with grain seeds, and hang the feeder on a shaded balcony branch.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Safety precautions, sequential practical crafting steps, upcycling discarded materials (4 Marks).
12
Theme 4: Materials, Making and Environment • Class 3 EVS (New NEP 2020)
Chapter 12: Taking Charge of Waste
Waste Segregation at Source, 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), Composting, and Swachh Bharat
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Categorization of waste: Biodegradable (wet waste) vs non-biodegradable (dry waste).
- Color-coded waste bins: Green bin for organic kitchen waste, blue bin for recyclable paper/plastic/metal.
- The 3Rs of ecological stewardship: Reduce consumption, reuse sturdy containers, recycle paper and plastic.
- Home and school composting: Transforming fruit peels and fallen garden leaves into rich organic manure.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What is the difference between wet waste and dry waste? Name three items that belong in each bin.
Waste Segregation at Source
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Wet Waste (Biodegradable): Organic matter that decomposes naturally through the action of bacteria and earthworms.
• Items: Fruit peels, vegetable trimmings, leftover cooked food, tea leaves, fallen dry garden leaves.
• Bin Color: Green Bin (processed into organic compost manure).
2. Dry Waste (Non-Biodegradable / Recyclable): Inorganic materials that do not decompose easily in soil.
• Items: Old newspapers, cardboard cartons, milk plastic pouches, metal tin cans, glass bottles.
• Bin Color: Blue Bin (sent to recycling factories).
• Items: Fruit peels, vegetable trimmings, leftover cooked food, tea leaves, fallen dry garden leaves.
• Bin Color: Green Bin (processed into organic compost manure).
2. Dry Waste (Non-Biodegradable / Recyclable): Inorganic materials that do not decompose easily in soil.
• Items: Old newspapers, cardboard cartons, milk plastic pouches, metal tin cans, glass bottles.
• Bin Color: Blue Bin (sent to recycling factories).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear scientific distinction between biodegradable and non-biodegradable
1.5 Marks
Correct allocation of 3 items to green and blue bins
1.5 Marks
Q2
Explain the '3Rs Principle' (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) with one practical example of each from school life.
The 3Rs Hierarchy
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Reduce (Cut Down Consumption): Buy only what you need. Example: Use both sides of every notebook page before starting a new notebook, and use refillable fountain pens rather than disposable single-use ballpoints.
2. Reuse (Use Again): Find new uses for containers instead of throwing them away. Example: Convert empty ice-cream tubs or plastic jars into stationery pencil holders or small flowerpots.
3. Recycle (Reprocess into New Goods): Send waste to recycling facilities. Example: Give old school textbooks and scrap paper to the local scrap dealer (kabadiwala) so paper mills can pulp them into recycled notebooks.
2. Reuse (Use Again): Find new uses for containers instead of throwing them away. Example: Convert empty ice-cream tubs or plastic jars into stationery pencil holders or small flowerpots.
3. Recycle (Reprocess into New Goods): Send waste to recycling facilities. Example: Give old school textbooks and scrap paper to the local scrap dealer (kabadiwala) so paper mills can pulp them into recycled notebooks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear definitions of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
1.5 Marks
Realistic, child-accessible school life examples for each R
1.5 Marks
Q3
Why is burning dry fallen leaves and municipal garbage illegal and hazardous to health?
Home & Garden Composting
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Burning dry leaves and mixed garbage releases choking particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, and cancer-causing dioxins that cause acute asthma attacks and air pollution. Instead of burning, dry leaves should be buried in a garden pit to decompose into rich organic compost fertilizer.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Harmful emissions and respiratory health hazards
1 Mark
Composting as the healthy, lawful alternative
1 Mark
Q4
Classify the following waste into the Green Bin (Wet/Biodegradable) and Blue Bin (Dry/Recyclable):
Banana peel, Broken glass bottle, Vegetable scraps, Plastic juice wrapper, Used tea leaves, Old newspaper. Waste Segregation • Green vs Blue Bins 4 Marks
Banana peel, Broken glass bottle, Vegetable scraps, Plastic juice wrapper, Used tea leaves, Old newspaper. Waste Segregation • Green vs Blue Bins 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Waste Segregation:
• Green Bin (Wet / Biodegradable Waste):
1. Banana peel
2. Vegetable scraps
3. Used tea leaves
(These rot naturally and turn into nutrient-rich compost).
• Blue Bin (Dry / Recyclable Waste):
1. Broken glass bottle
2. Plastic juice wrapper
3. Old newspaper
(These can be cleaned, melted, or pulped for recycling).
• Green Bin (Wet / Biodegradable Waste):
1. Banana peel
2. Vegetable scraps
3. Used tea leaves
(These rot naturally and turn into nutrient-rich compost).
• Blue Bin (Dry / Recyclable Waste):
1. Broken glass bottle
2. Plastic juice wrapper
3. Old newspaper
(These can be cleaned, melted, or pulped for recycling).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three correct wet biodegradable items in Green Bin
2.0 M
Three correct dry recyclable items in Blue Bin
2.0 M
Q5
Explain the three R's of waste management: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle with one practical example of each.
The 3 R's • Environmental Action
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
The 3 R's Explained:
1. Reduce (घटाना): Cut down on waste generated (e.g., Carry a reusable cloth bag to the market instead of taking new plastic bags).
2. Reuse (पुनः उपयोग): Use items multiple times before throwing them away (e.g., Wash plastic ice-cream tubs to store crayons, buttons, or small plants).
3. Recycle (पुनर्चक्रण): Processing used waste materials into fresh new items in factories (e.g., Giving old newspapers to the raddiwala to be pulped into fresh cardboard and paper).
1. Reduce (घटाना): Cut down on waste generated (e.g., Carry a reusable cloth bag to the market instead of taking new plastic bags).
2. Reuse (पुनः उपयोग): Use items multiple times before throwing them away (e.g., Wash plastic ice-cream tubs to store crayons, buttons, or small plants).
3. Recycle (पुनर्चक्रण): Processing used waste materials into fresh new items in factories (e.g., Giving old newspapers to the raddiwala to be pulped into fresh cardboard and paper).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clear definition and example for Reduce
1.0 M
Clear definition and example for Reuse
1.0 M
Clear definition and example for Recycle
1.0 M
Q6
How does a school compost pit turn organic food waste into rich garden manure?
School Composting • Nutrient Cycle
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Composting Process:
• Leftover fruit peels, fallen leaves, and vegetable scraps are placed in a shaded pit in layers with soil and sprinkled with water.
• Beneficial soil microorganisms, fungi, and earthworms feed on this organic waste, breaking it down naturally over 4 to 6 weeks into rich, dark, earthy manure that nourishes plants.
• Leftover fruit peels, fallen leaves, and vegetable scraps are placed in a shaded pit in layers with soil and sprinkled with water.
• Beneficial soil microorganisms, fungi, and earthworms feed on this organic waste, breaking it down naturally over 4 to 6 weeks into rich, dark, earthy manure that nourishes plants.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Layering waste with soil and water
1.5 M
Microorganisms and worms creating dark compost
1.5 M
Q7
Why are single-use plastic bags harmful when swallowed by stray cows on roadsides?
Say No to Single-Use Plastic
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Harm to Stray Animals:
• Cows smell leftover food scraps thrown inside polythene bags and swallow the entire plastic bag. Plastic cannot be digested; it forms a heavy, toxic lump inside the animal's stomach, blocking digestion and leading to painful illness or death.
• Cows smell leftover food scraps thrown inside polythene bags and swallow the entire plastic bag. Plastic cannot be digested; it forms a heavy, toxic lump inside the animal's stomach, blocking digestion and leading to painful illness or death.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Plastic choking stomach and preventing digestion explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 12 ('Taking Charge of Waste'), what key natural elements or community roles are highlighted? List three observations.
Find Out & Write • Environmental Observation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
1. Interdependence: Plants, animals, and humans depend closely on each other for food, oxygen, and shelter.
2. Community Helpers: People in our neighbourhood perform essential services (farmers, sanitation workers, doctors, teachers).
3. Resource Conservation: Water, soil, and clean air are precious gifts that must not be polluted or wasted.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Interdependence observed
1 M
Community helpers recognized
1 M
Conservation awareness
1 M
Q9
Discuss with your classmates: How does the change of seasons impact the food we eat, clothes we wear, and activities in 'Taking Charge of Waste'?
Discuss & Share • Classroom Activity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Seasonal Impact:
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
• Summer: We wear light cotton clothes, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and eat fruits like mangoes and watermelons.
• Winter: We wear warm woollens, enjoy hot soups and nuts, and sit in the sun.
• Monsoon: We use umbrellas and raincoats, and enjoy hot pakoras while taking care to avoid stagnant water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Summer adaptations
1 M
Winter adaptations
1 M
Monsoon adaptations
1 M
Q10
What simple daily action can you and your family take to reduce waste and protect nature as suggested in 'Taking Charge of Waste'?
Think & Reflect • Environmental Care
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily Actions:
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
1. Segregate Waste: Keep green dustbins for wet biodegradable kitchen waste and blue dustbins for dry recyclable plastic/paper.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastic: Carry cloth bags for vegetable shopping and refill reusable steel water bottles.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Waste segregation explained
1 M
Avoiding single-use plastics
1 M
Q11
Classify the following items into Living Things and Non-Living Things: Neem tree, School bus, Butterfly, River stone, Honeybee, Wooden table.
Activity • Classification & Grouping
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
• Living Things: Neem tree, Butterfly, Honeybee (they breathe, grow, and reproduce).
• Non-Living Things: School bus, River stone, Wooden table (they do not grow or breathe).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Non-living things identified correctly
1.5 M
Q12
Look closely at leaves of different plants around your school. How do they differ from one another in shape, colour, and texture?
Field Exploration • Plants in Neighbourhood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leaf Observations:
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
• Shape: Banana leaves are broad and long, peepal leaves have a pointed tip, and pine needles are thin and pointy.
• Colour: Leaves vary from light yellow-green to dark emerald green, and some crotons have red or purple spots.
• Texture: Lotus leaves feel waxy, rose leaves feel soft with serrated margins, and hibiscus leaves feel slightly rough.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Difference in shape
1 M
Difference in colour
1 M
Difference in texture
1 M
Q13
Why must we wash our hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet? Describe the correct 6-step method.
Health & Hygiene • Good Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Importance & Method:
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Washing with soap removes invisible disease-causing germs and bacteria.
• Steps: Wet hands, apply soap, rub palms together, wash backs of hands, clean between fingers and under nails, rinse thoroughly under running water, and dry with a clean towel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for washing hands
1 M
Steps described
1 M
Q14
List three practical ways to save drinking water at home and in school.
Water Conservation • Every Drop Counts
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Saving Ways:
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
1. Turn off the tap tightly while brushing teeth instead of letting water run.
2. Use a bucket and mug for bathing rather than a shower.
3. Pour leftover water from drinking bottles into plant pots instead of draining it away.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three valid water conservation methods
3 M
Q15
How can we help birds and stray animals during the hot summer season?
Animal Empathy • Coexistence
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helping Summer Animals:
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
• Place an earthen clay bowl filled with clean fresh water on the terrace, balcony, or under a tree for thirsty birds.
• Keep a bowl of water in the shade outside the house for community dogs and cats.
• Never disturb bird nests or throw stones at sleeping animals.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clay water bowls for birds
1 M
Kind treatment and shade
1 M
Q16
Name two traditional Indian festivals and describe the special food items prepared and shared during these celebrations.
Community Living • Festivals and Food
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Festivals and Traditional Foods:
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
1. Eid: Families prepare and share sweet Sevaiyan (vermicelli pudding) and biryani with neighbours.
2. Holi: People celebrate spring by sharing traditional Gujiyas and refreshing thandai.
3. Diwali: Families distribute homemade Laddoos, kaju katli, and savoury namkeens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two festivals named with corresponding special food
2 M
Q17
State True or False:
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during daytime.
(b) Rainwater harvesting means collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
(c) Burning dry leaves and plastic in open air keeps the environment healthy. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
• (a) True: Photosynthesis produces oxygen.
• (b) True: Rainwater harvesting replenishes groundwater.
• (c) False: Burning releases toxic smoke and causes severe air pollution. Dry leaves should be composted into organic manure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with explanations
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Clean School Campus Initiative: Establishing a Zero-Waste Classroom
Real-Life Context: The student council of Class 3 finds that every day after recess, classroom wastebaskets are overflowing with plastic biscuit wrappers, half-eaten sandwiches, crushed pencil shavings, and crumpled drawing sheets.
Analytical Task: Design a comprehensive 4-step 'Zero-Waste Classroom Campaign' to make your classroom a model of environmental cleanliness.
The student council can implement a 4-step actionable campaign: (1) Two-Bin Color Coding: Install separate Green (wet food leftovers) and Blue (paper, pencil shavings) bins in the classroom doorway with picture labels. (2) No-Wrapper Lunch Challenge: Encourage parents to pack homemade rotis and fruits in reusable steel lunchboxes and cloth napkins, eliminating plastic cling-film and chip packets. (3) Classroom Scrap Paper Box: Maintain a 'One-Side Clean' cardboard tray where sheets blank on one side are stored for rough calculations and sketches before disposal. (4) Classroom Compost Pit: Empty the green bin daily into the school compost pit to fertilize the school garden plants.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Source segregation, reduction of single-use wrappers, paper upcycling box, link to school composting (4 Marks).
1
Unit 1: Animals & Habitats • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 1: Poonam's Day Out
Observing Animals Around Us: Movements, Sounds, Habitats (Trees, Pond, Ground, Flying)
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Animals move in different ways: Walking, crawling, flying, swimming, and hopping.
- Diverse habitats: Animals that live on trees, in water, on land, underground in burrows, and flying in the air.
- Animal sounds: Pigeons coo, crows caw, dogs bark, frogs croak, cows moo, and goats bleat.
- Respecting nature: Observing animal behaviors silently without disturbing or teasing them.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Name three animals that Poonam saw on the tree and three animals she saw around the pond.
Habitats & Observations
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Animals Poonam saw on the tree: Pigeon, Squirrel, Crow, Monkey, Butterfly, and Sparrow.
Animals Poonam saw around the pond: Goat, Tortoise, Crane (stork), Buffalo, and Frog.
Animals Poonam saw around the pond: Goat, Tortoise, Crane (stork), Buffalo, and Frog.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of 3 tree-dwelling animals
1.5 Marks
Identification of 3 pond-associated animals
1.5 Marks
Q2
Classify animals based on how they move: (a) Fly (b) Crawl (c) Walk (d) Hop. Give two examples of each.
Animal Movements
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Fly: Sparrow, Pigeon, Butterfly.
• Crawl: Lizard, Snake, Earthworm.
• Walk: Cow, Dog, Buffalo.
• Hop: Frog, Kangaroo, Grasshopper.
• Crawl: Lizard, Snake, Earthworm.
• Walk: Cow, Dog, Buffalo.
• Hop: Frog, Kangaroo, Grasshopper.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all four movement categories
2 Marks
Clear classification structure
1 Mark
Q3
Why should we observe birds and small creatures silently when visiting a garden?
Nature Sensitivity
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Sudden noises, shouting, or running scare animals away and interrupt their natural feeding or nesting activities. Silent observation allows us to learn their genuine habits without causing them distress.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Impact of noise on animal fear and nesting
1 Mark
Educational value of quiet observation
1 Mark
Q4
Solve the animal riddles from Chapter 1:
(a) 'Banana is what I love eating, I spend my time jumping and leaping.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(b) 'On the walls, webs I weave, where insects stick and cannot leave.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(c) 'I remain awake the whole night, and go to sleep in broad daylight.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(d) 'Slow and steady is my pace, I always win when I run a race.' $\rightarrow$ _____ Textbook Riddles • 'Who am I?' 4 Marks
(a) 'Banana is what I love eating, I spend my time jumping and leaping.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(b) 'On the walls, webs I weave, where insects stick and cannot leave.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(c) 'I remain awake the whole night, and go to sleep in broad daylight.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(d) 'Slow and steady is my pace, I always win when I run a race.' $\rightarrow$ _____ Textbook Riddles • 'Who am I?' 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Riddle Solutions:
• (a) Monkey
• (b) Spider
• (c) Owl
• (d) Tortoise
• (a) Monkey
• (b) Spider
• (c) Owl
• (d) Tortoise
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct identification of Monkey and Spider
2.0 M
Correct identification of Owl and Tortoise
2.0 M
Q5
Match each animal with how it moves and the sound it makes:
• Frog: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss]
• Pigeon: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss]
• Snake: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss]
• Cow: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss] Animal Movements & Sounds • Classroom Mimicry 4 Marks
• Frog: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss]
• Pigeon: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss]
• Snake: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss]
• Cow: [Fly & Coo, Hop & Croak, Walk & Moo, Crawl & Hiss] Animal Movements & Sounds • Classroom Mimicry 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Animal Movement & Sound Matching:
• Frog: Hops and croaks ('croak-croak')
• Pigeon: Flies and coos ('gutur-goo')
• Snake: Crawls silently on belly and hisses
• Cow: Walks on four legs and moos ('moo-moo')
• Frog: Hops and croaks ('croak-croak')
• Pigeon: Flies and coos ('gutur-goo')
• Snake: Crawls silently on belly and hisses
• Cow: Walks on four legs and moos ('moo-moo')
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 animal movement-sound pairs correctly matched
4.0 M
Q6
Describe the 'Magic with Fingers' activity from the textbook where thumbprints and fingerprints are used to create animal shapes.
Magic with Fingers • Thumbprint Animal Art
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Thumbprint Art Steps:
1. Press your thumb or index finger gently onto an ink pad or wet watercolor wash.
2. Press the inked thumb firmly onto a blank sheet of paper to create an oval fingerprint impression.
3. Using a fine-tipped pen, add simple details: draw ears, a tail, whiskers, and eyes onto the print to transform it into a mouse, dog, butterfly, or peacock.
1. Press your thumb or index finger gently onto an ink pad or wet watercolor wash.
2. Press the inked thumb firmly onto a blank sheet of paper to create an oval fingerprint impression.
3. Using a fine-tipped pen, add simple details: draw ears, a tail, whiskers, and eyes onto the print to transform it into a mouse, dog, butterfly, or peacock.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Inking and pressing fingerprint technique
1.5 M
Adding pen lines to detail animals described
1.5 M
Q7
List three animals Poonam saw on the tree, and three animals she saw around the pond.
Animal Habitats • Pond vs Tree
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Poonam's Sighting Lists:
• On the Tree: Monkey, Squirrel, Crow (also Pigeon, Sparrow).
• Around the Pond: Buffalo, Tortoise, Frog (also Goat, Crane).
• On the Tree: Monkey, Squirrel, Crow (also Pigeon, Sparrow).
• Around the Pond: Buffalo, Tortoise, Frog (also Goat, Crane).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three accurate tree-dwelling animals named
1.5 M
Three accurate pond-associated animals named
1.5 M
Q8
In Chapter 1 ('Poonam's Day Out'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Bio-indicator Assessment: Pond Ecosystem Health
Real-Life Context: During a nature walk, students notice that the village pond where Poonam once saw frogs and cranes is now covered in thick green chemical scum and discarded plastic bottles, and no frogs or dragonflies can be seen.
Analytical Task: What does the sudden disappearance of frogs indicate about water quality, and what can students do to restore the pond?
Frogs are vital bio-indicators because their permeable, moist skin absorbs environmental toxins directly; their disappearance signals that the water is severely polluted and deoxygenated due to plastic litter and sewage. Students can organize a community cleanup drive to clear surface plastics, plant native aquatic reeds that naturally filter toxins, and place signboards urging villagers not to wash clothes or dump trash into the pond.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Understanding frogs as bio-indicators of pollution, ecosystem restoration steps (4 Marks).
2
Unit 1: Animals & Habitats • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 2: The Plant Fairy
Outdoor Plant Exploration: Leaf Colors, Shapes, Margins, Textures, and Tree Bark Rubbings
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Diversity in plant leaves: Shape (round, oval, triangular, elongated), size, color (light green, dark green, purple, yellow), and margins (plain, serrated, wavy).
- Leaf scents: Crushed leaves of mint, coriander, neem, lemon, and tulsi have distinct identifying aromas.
- Tree bark textures: Smooth barks (e.g., Guava) vs rough, cracked barks (e.g., Neem, Peepal).
- Taking bark and leaf rubbings using crayons and paper to observe surface textures.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
How can you identify different leaves using your senses of touch and smell without looking at them?
Leaf Diversity
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Sense of Touch: We can feel the leaf margins (smooth plain edge vs toothed/serrated edge) and surface textures (soft hairy like pumpkin leaves, waxy smooth like banana leaves, or prickly like rose leaves).
• Sense of Smell: Crushing a leaf releases aromatic essential oils with distinctive scents—such as the pungent cooling aroma of mint (pudina), the citrus smell of lemon leaves, and the characteristic medicinal aroma of neem or tulsi.
• Sense of Smell: Crushing a leaf releases aromatic essential oils with distinctive scents—such as the pungent cooling aroma of mint (pudina), the citrus smell of lemon leaves, and the characteristic medicinal aroma of neem or tulsi.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Tactile assessment (margins, textures, hairiness)
1.5 Marks
Olfactory identification (aromatic herbs)
1.5 Marks
Q2
What is tree bark, and how do you make a bark rubbing on paper?
Bark Texture & Function
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Tree Bark: The protective outer woody skin of a tree trunk that shields the tree from insect attacks, extreme weather, and dehydration.
How to Make a Bark Rubbing: Place a plain sheet of paper firmly against the tree trunk. Using the side of a wax crayon or soft pencil, rub gently and evenly across the paper until the rough textures and ridges of the bark appear clearly.
How to Make a Bark Rubbing: Place a plain sheet of paper firmly against the tree trunk. Using the side of a wax crayon or soft pencil, rub gently and evenly across the paper until the rough textures and ridges of the bark appear clearly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Function of tree bark
1.5 Marks
Practical technique for making a crayon rubbing
1.5 Marks
Q3
How can fallen dry leaves be used creatively without harming living branches?
Herbarium & Leaf Art
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
We can collect naturally fallen dry leaves from the ground, press them between the pages of old heavy books, and paste them onto card sheets to create animal shapes (like elephants, birds, and fish) for scrapbooks and greeting cards.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Using only naturally fallen leaves
1 Mark
Creative leaf-art craft method
1 Mark
Q4
In the poem 'Leaves' by V. P. Shrivastava:
(a) What different colors do leaves have in nature?
(b) What different shapes do leaves take?
(c) Describe what happens to dry leaves when the wind blows. Poem Comprehension • 'Leaves' 3 Marks
(a) What different colors do leaves have in nature?
(b) What different shapes do leaves take?
(c) Describe what happens to dry leaves when the wind blows. Poem Comprehension • 'Leaves' 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Poem Analysis:
(a) Leaf Colors:
• Green, light green, dark green, yellow, red, and purple.
(b) Leaf Shapes:
• Round (like lotus), long and pointed (like mango), triangular, and broad with wavy borders.
(c) Dry Leaves in Wind:
• Dry leaves flutter and whisper in the breeze, making a dry rustling crackle as they dance across the ground.
(a) Leaf Colors:
• Green, light green, dark green, yellow, red, and purple.
(b) Leaf Shapes:
• Round (like lotus), long and pointed (like mango), triangular, and broad with wavy borders.
(c) Dry Leaves in Wind:
• Dry leaves flutter and whisper in the breeze, making a dry rustling crackle as they dance across the ground.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Variety of leaf colors noted
1.0 M
Variety of leaf shapes described
1.0 M
Rustling sound and movement of dry leaves explained
1.0 M
Q5
Collect fallen leaves from around your school. Classify them into:
(a) Leaves with smooth edges.
(b) Leaves with uneven, saw-toothed (serrated) edges. Leaf Margins • Sorting & Classification 3 Marks
(a) Leaves with smooth edges.
(b) Leaves with uneven, saw-toothed (serrated) edges. Leaf Margins • Sorting & Classification 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Classification:
• (a) Smooth Edges (Entire margin): Mango leaf, Banana leaf, Peepal leaf.
• (b) Saw-toothed / Serrated Edges: Rose leaf, Neem leaf, Hibiscus leaf.
• (a) Smooth Edges (Entire margin): Mango leaf, Banana leaf, Peepal leaf.
• (b) Saw-toothed / Serrated Edges: Rose leaf, Neem leaf, Hibiscus leaf.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples of smooth-edged leaves
1.5 M
Correct examples of serrated/toothed leaves
1.5 M
Q6
How can you take a rubbing of a tree trunk? What differences do you feel between the trunk of a young sapling and that of an old banyan or neem tree?
Tree Trunk Rubbing • Bark Textures
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Trunk Rubbing & Bark Textures:
• Method: Press a sheet of paper against the tree trunk and rub a dark wax crayon or soft pencil flat across the surface.
• Texture Comparison: A young sapling has a soft, thin, green, and smooth bark. An old neem or banyan tree has thick, deeply grooved, rough, dark brown bark that protects the wood from harsh weather and pests.
• Method: Press a sheet of paper against the tree trunk and rub a dark wax crayon or soft pencil flat across the surface.
• Texture Comparison: A young sapling has a soft, thin, green, and smooth bark. An old neem or banyan tree has thick, deeply grooved, rough, dark brown bark that protects the wood from harsh weather and pests.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Paper and crayon rubbing method described
1.5 M
Contrast between smooth sapling and rough old bark
1.5 M
Q7
Why does the teacher tell children to collect only fallen leaves from the ground instead of plucking fresh leaves from live branches?
Herbarium Activity • Plant Ethics
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Plant Care Ethics:
• Leaves are the 'food factories' (kitchens) of plants. Plucking green leaves needlessly damages the plant and hinders its growth. Collecting fallen leaves from the ground shows respect for living nature.
• Leaves are the 'food factories' (kitchens) of plants. Plucking green leaves needlessly damages the plant and hinders its growth. Collecting fallen leaves from the ground shows respect for living nature.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Biological role of leaves and compassionate nature ethics
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 2 ('The Plant Fairy'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Botanical Observation and Indigenous Herbal Knowledge
Real-Life Context: While playing in the park, Ananya scrapes her knee on a rough stone. Her grandmother does not panic; she plucks three leaves of a common garden weed called 'Patharchatta' (Bryophyllum) / Marigold, crushes them between her clean palms to extract green juice, and applies it to the scrape, stopping the bleeding immediately.
Analytical Task: What does this experience teach children about traditional botanical knowledge and neighborhood medicinal plants?
This demonstrates that our surrounding plants possess valuable medicinal properties preserved through traditional indigenous wisdom (Ayurveda and grandmother's remedies). Many common plants like tulsi (for coughs), neem (for skin infections), marigold (for cuts), and aloe vera (for burns) have natural antiseptic and healing capabilities. Learning to identify these beneficial plants connects scientific inquiry with practical first-aid.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Appreciation of medicinal plants, grandmother's home remedies, scientific validation of traditional knowledge (4 Marks).
3
Unit 2: Water & Food • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 3: Water O' Water!
Poem on Water Forms (River, Waterfall, Lake, Spring), Scarcity, Droughts, and Floods
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Diverse natural forms of water: Flowing rivers, roaring waterfalls, serene lakes, and underground springs.
- The indispensability of water for human life, agriculture, animals, and industry.
- The duality of water: In droughts, crops dry up and cattle starve; in floods, swollen rivers submerge homes.
- Traditional poems and songs celebrating monsoons and rainfall across Indian cultures.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
List four daily activities that cannot be done without water and two activities that can be done without water.
Sources and Uses of Water
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Activities that CANNOT be done without water:
1. Cooking food (boiling rice, making dal).
2. Bathing and washing clothes.
3. Quenching thirst (drinking).
4. Growing crops in fields (irrigation).
Activities that CAN be done without water:
1. Reading a storybook or writing.
2. Singing, dancing, or riding a bicycle.
1. Cooking food (boiling rice, making dal).
2. Bathing and washing clothes.
3. Quenching thirst (drinking).
4. Growing crops in fields (irrigation).
Activities that CAN be done without water:
1. Reading a storybook or writing.
2. Singing, dancing, or riding a bicycle.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Four correct essential water-dependent activities
2 Marks
Two correct water-independent activities
1 Mark
Q2
What is the difference between a drought and a flood? How do both affect living beings?
Drought vs Flood
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Drought: Occurs when there is no rainfall for a very long period. Water sources dry up, crops wither in fields, soil cracks, and humans and cattle face severe hunger and dehydration.
• Flood: Occurs when excessive, heavy monsoon rains cause rivers and lakes to overflow their banks. Rushing floodwaters drown villages, destroy crops, wash away roads, and cause waterborne disease outbreaks.
• Flood: Occurs when excessive, heavy monsoon rains cause rivers and lakes to overflow their banks. Rushing floodwaters drown villages, destroy crops, wash away roads, and cause waterborne disease outbreaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate cause and effect of drought
1.5 Marks
Accurate cause and effect of flood
1.5 Marks
Q3
Why is water from rivers and ponds not safe to drink directly without boiling or filtering?
Potable Water Safety
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Open water bodies contain microscopic disease-causing germs (bacteria, protozoa), dissolved chemical effluents, mud sediments, and animal waste. Drinking untreated river water causes dangerous waterborne illnesses like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Contaminants (germs, chemicals, animal waste)
1 Mark
Risk of waterborne diseases
1 Mark
Q4
In the poem 'Water O' Water!' by Shri Prasad:
(a) Name three natural forms in which water exists on Earth.
(b) Write two human activities that cannot be done without water, and two activities that do not require water. Water Poem Comprehension • 'Water O' Water!' 3 Marks
(a) Name three natural forms in which water exists on Earth.
(b) Write two human activities that cannot be done without water, and two activities that do not require water. Water Poem Comprehension • 'Water O' Water!' 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Analysis:
(a) Three Natural Forms:
• Liquid water (rivers, oceans), Solid ice / snow (glaciers), Gas / water vapor (clouds, steam).
(b) Activities:
• Cannot be done without water: Cooking food, bathing, drinking.
• Can be done without water: Reading a book, running a race, singing a song.
(a) Three Natural Forms:
• Liquid water (rivers, oceans), Solid ice / snow (glaciers), Gas / water vapor (clouds, steam).
(b) Activities:
• Cannot be done without water: Cooking food, bathing, drinking.
• Can be done without water: Reading a book, running a race, singing a song.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three natural states of water named
1.5 M
Accurate contrast of activities requiring vs not requiring water
1.5 M
Q5
Rank these containers in order of the amount of water they hold (1 = holds least water to 4 = holds most water):
Water bottle (1 Litre), Spoon (5 mL), Overhead tank (500 Litres), Bath bucket (15 Litres). Water Capacity Ranking • Household Containers 4 Marks
Water bottle (1 Litre), Spoon (5 mL), Overhead tank (500 Litres), Bath bucket (15 Litres). Water Capacity Ranking • Household Containers 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Capacity Ranking:
1. Spoon (5 mL) — Holds least
2. Water bottle (1 Litre)
3. Bath bucket (15 Litres)
4. Overhead tank (500 Litres) — Holds most.
1. Spoon (5 mL) — Holds least
2. Water bottle (1 Litre)
3. Bath bucket (15 Litres)
4. Overhead tank (500 Litres) — Holds most.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 containers ranked in exact ascending order
4.0 M
Q6
Where do mountain rivers get their water from, and where do they finally empty their water?
River Flow • The Journey of Water
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
River Journey:
• Mountain rivers originate from melting glaciers (snowfields) and seasonal monsoon rainfall in high mountain ranges.
• After flowing hundreds of kilometers through valleys and plains, they finally empty their water into the Ocean or Sea.
• Mountain rivers originate from melting glaciers (snowfields) and seasonal monsoon rainfall in high mountain ranges.
• After flowing hundreds of kilometers through valleys and plains, they finally empty their water into the Ocean or Sea.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Glacier melting and rain origin noted
1.5 M
Sea/Ocean terminal destination noted
1.5 M
Q7
Why is water from a river or pond boiled or filtered before drinking?
Safe Drinking Water • Boiling and Filtering
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Safety:
• River and pond water often contains invisible germs, bacteria, parasites, and dirt. Boiling water for 10 minutes or passing it through a certified filter kills harmful microbes and prevents waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.
• River and pond water often contains invisible germs, bacteria, parasites, and dirt. Boiling water for 10 minutes or passing it through a certified filter kills harmful microbes and prevents waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Microbial disinfection and disease prevention explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 3 ('Water O' Water!'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Disaster Preparedness: Flood Safety in Coastal Communities
Real-Life Context: Due to a cyclone, heavy rain lashes a coastal town. Floodwater enters the ground floor of houses, submerging electric plug points, floating garbage around, and contaminating the municipal drinking water supply pipes.
Analytical Task: What emergency safety precautions must families follow during a flood to protect their lives and health?
Families must observe immediate flood safety protocols: (1) Electrical Safety: Turn off the main electrical circuit breaker immediately to prevent lethal electrocution through flooded water. (2) Move to Higher Ground: Evacuate to higher floors or designated cyclone shelters with emergency medicine, dry snacks, and torches. (3) Strict Drinking Water Hygiene: Drink only vigorously boiled water or bottled water; never drink cloudy floodwater. (4) Avoid Walking in Moving Water: Fast currents of even knee-deep water can sweep away adults, and hidden submerged open drains or reptiles pose fatal hazards.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Electrical cut-off, higher ground evacuation, safe potable drinking water, hazard avoidance (4 Marks).
4
Unit 3: Family & Homes • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 4: Our First School
The Family as Our Primary Learning Space: Values, Habits, Resemblances, and Customs
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Our family is our first school because we learn our first words, habits, manners, and values at home.
- Physical resemblances: Inheriting facial features, voice tones, walking styles, and smiles from parents.
- Special family customs: Taking off shoes outside before entering the home, folding hands in greeting.
- Learning skills from family elders: Tailoring, cooking, farming, cycling, or singing.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Why is our family called our 'first school'?
Family Values
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Our family is called our first school because long before we ever enroll in a formal classroom, we learn how to talk, walk, eat neatly, share our toys, respect elders, and practice honesty from our parents and grandparents at home.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Explanation of early social and moral learning at home
2 Marks
Contrast with formal schooling
1 Mark
Q2
Give two examples of how children resemble their parents or relatives in physical appearance or mannerisms.
Heredity & Resemblance
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Physical Features: A child may have curly hair and dark brown eyes just like their mother, or have a tall height like their father.
2. Mannerisms: A child may have the same hearty laughing style as their uncle, or walk with a brisk gait just like their grandfather.
2. Mannerisms: A child may have the same hearty laughing style as their uncle, or walk with a brisk gait just like their grandfather.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
One clear example of inherited physical features
1.5 Marks
One clear example of behavioral or vocal resemblance
1.5 Marks
Q3
What is the reason behind the common Indian custom of leaving footwear outside the home?
Cultural Customs
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Footwear gathers dirt, dust, animal feces, and street microbes from roads. Removing shoes outside ensures that living rooms and kitchen areas remain clean, hygienic, and spiritually sacred.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Hygiene and prevention of outdoor contamination
1.5 Marks
Respect for indoor sacred spaces
0.5 Marks
Q4
In 'Our First School':
(a) How can family members resemble each other (features, voice, smile, walk)?
(b) Why is our family called our 'First School'? Family Resemblances • Genetic Traits 3 Marks
(a) How can family members resemble each other (features, voice, smile, walk)?
(b) Why is our family called our 'First School'? Family Resemblances • Genetic Traits 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Family Resemblance & First School:
(a) Resemblance:
• Children often inherit physical traits like curly hair, brown eyes, facial structure, laughing style, or voice tone from their parents or grandparents.
(b) First School:
• Long before going to formal school, we learn our very first words, eating manners, walking, kindness, hygiene, and cultural customs at home from our family members.
(a) Resemblance:
• Children often inherit physical traits like curly hair, brown eyes, facial structure, laughing style, or voice tone from their parents or grandparents.
(b) First School:
• Long before going to formal school, we learn our very first words, eating manners, walking, kindness, hygiene, and cultural customs at home from our family members.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Physical and behavioral resemblances described
1.5 M
Foundational learning at home explained
1.5 M
Q5
In Anwari's family, all members follow the custom of taking off their shoes outside before entering the house.
(a) Why do many Indian families follow this custom?
(b) Write one healthy custom practiced in your family. Family Customs • Traditions at Home 3 Marks
(a) Why do many Indian families follow this custom?
(b) Write one healthy custom practiced in your family. Family Customs • Traditions at Home 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Family Customs:
(a) Shoes Outside:
• Footwear collects street dirt, animal feces, and outdoor germs. Leaving shoes outside keeps the home floor clean, hygienic, and spiritually pure.
(b) Family Custom:
• In our family, we wash our hands and feet after returning from outside and touch the feet of our grandparents every morning to seek their blessings.
(a) Shoes Outside:
• Footwear collects street dirt, animal feces, and outdoor germs. Leaving shoes outside keeps the home floor clean, hygienic, and spiritually pure.
(b) Family Custom:
• In our family, we wash our hands and feet after returning from outside and touch the feet of our grandparents every morning to seek their blessings.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Hygiene and cultural purity rationale for shoes
1.5 M
Valid personal/cultural family custom described
1.5 M
Q6
List three household tasks that children in Class 3 can easily do to help their parents at home.
Helping at Home • Family Duties
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Helpful Tasks for Children:
1. Keeping school bags, shoes, and water bottles in their proper places after coming home.
2. Laying plates, spoons, and water glasses on the dining table before dinner.
3. Watering potted plants in the balcony every evening.
1. Keeping school bags, shoes, and water bottles in their proper places after coming home.
2. Laying plates, spoons, and water glasses on the dining table before dinner.
3. Watering potted plants in the balcony every evening.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three age-appropriate, realistic helping chores
3.0 M
Q7
What should you do when you accidentally make a mistake or break a dish at home?
Respect & Communication • Family Dialogue
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Honesty & Courage:
• We should never lie or hide the pieces. We should immediately tell our parents the truth, apologize politely, and help sweep up the broken pieces carefully.
• We should never lie or hide the pieces. We should immediately tell our parents the truth, apologize politely, and help sweep up the broken pieces carefully.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Honesty, apology, and helping in cleanup
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 4 ('Our First School'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Inter-generational Learning: Preserving Traditional Handicrafts
Real-Life Context: In an artisan family, little Anwita observes her mother and grandmother weaving intricate Zari embroidery on sarees every evening after completing her school homework.
Analytical Task: How does learning within the family keep traditional cultural arts and artisanal livelihoods alive?
Artisanal knowledge is experiential and passed down orally and through observation across generations. By watching elders' precise hand movements, pattern counting, and thread tensions, children absorb subtle craft techniques that no textbook can teach. This inter-generational mentorship nurtures respect for traditional livelihoods, preserves intangible cultural heritage, and empowers future generations with sustainable economic skills.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Experiential learning at home, preservation of intangible craft heritage, respect for traditional work (4 Marks).
5
Unit 3: Family & Homes • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 5: Chhotu's House
Turning a Shelter into a Home: Uninvited Animal Guests, House Cleanliness, and Decoration
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The difference between a physical shelter (roof/walls) and a home (warmth, family love, comfort).
- How Chhotu repurposed a large cement drainage pipe into a comfortable home with separate living, cooking, and sleeping zones.
- Uninvited animal guests in our homes: Lizards, spiders, mosquitoes, flies, ants, and mice.
- Keeping homes clean: Sweeping, mopping, waste disposal, and festive decorations (rangoli, torans).
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
How did Chhotu divide the cement pipe into different spaces for his daily living?
Shelter Adaptation
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Chhotu smartly divided the pipe and the area around it into functional zones:
1. Inside the pipe was his sleeping space shielded from rain and heat.
2. Outside behind the pipe was his cooking space with a small clay stove.
3. An area next to it was for drying clothes on a rope.
4. A corner was set aside for storing drinking water in an earthen pitcher.
5. The front open space was for welcoming guests and chatting with his friend Monu.
1. Inside the pipe was his sleeping space shielded from rain and heat.
2. Outside behind the pipe was his cooking space with a small clay stove.
3. An area next to it was for drying clothes on a rope.
4. A corner was set aside for storing drinking water in an earthen pitcher.
5. The front open space was for welcoming guests and chatting with his friend Monu.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Detailed division into sleeping, cooking, water storage, and guest spaces
3 Marks
Q2
Name four uninvited animals that live in our homes and explain where they are usually found.
Uninvited Guests in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Lizards (Geckos): Crawling on walls and ceilings near electric lights to hunt flies.
2. Spiders: Weaving webs in dusty corners and behind heavy cupboards.
3. Ants: Marching in straight lines toward sugary crumbs dropped in the kitchen.
4. Mice (Rats): Hiding in dark basements, store rooms, or kitchen drains.
2. Spiders: Weaving webs in dusty corners and behind heavy cupboards.
3. Ants: Marching in straight lines toward sugary crumbs dropped in the kitchen.
4. Mice (Rats): Hiding in dark basements, store rooms, or kitchen drains.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Naming four uninvited creatures
1.5 Marks
Accurate micro-locations within the house
1.5 Marks
Q3
Why is daily sweeping and wet mopping necessary for household health?
Cleanliness Habits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Daily sweeping removes dust and food crumbs that attract cockroaches and mice, while mopping with disinfectant cleans floor bacteria and prevents the breeding of germs that cause infectious illnesses.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Pest prevention by removing food crumbs
1 Mark
Bacterial disinfection for family health
1 Mark
Q4
When Chhotu came to Mumbai, he had no house. He saw a large cement pipe lying on the road.
(a) How did Chhotu use the cement pipe as his home?
(b) How did he divide the pipe and surrounding area into different parts for living? Shelter Adaptation • Chhotu's House 4 Marks
(a) How did Chhotu use the cement pipe as his home?
(b) How did he divide the pipe and surrounding area into different parts for living? Shelter Adaptation • Chhotu's House 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Chhotu's Shelter:
(a) Pipe as Shelter:
• Chhotu used the large cement pipe as a safe, dry home that protected him from rain, scorching heat, and cold winds without having to pay rent.
(b) Functional Zones:
• Inside the pipe: Sleeping area.
• Near the pipe entrance: Cooking area.
• On a string outside: Drying clothes.
• In a bucket outside: Water storage.
• Open space: Sitting area for chatting with friend Monu.
(a) Pipe as Shelter:
• Chhotu used the large cement pipe as a safe, dry home that protected him from rain, scorching heat, and cold winds without having to pay rent.
(b) Functional Zones:
• Inside the pipe: Sleeping area.
• Near the pipe entrance: Cooking area.
• On a string outside: Drying clothes.
• In a bucket outside: Water storage.
• Open space: Sitting area for chatting with friend Monu.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Protection from weather without rent
1.5 M
Zoning of pipe into sleeping, cooking, drying areas
2.5 M
Q5
In the poem 'Home Sweet Home', which creatures are called 'uninvited guests' that live in our houses without our permission?
Uninvited Guests • Household Pests
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Uninvited Guests in Houses:
• Lizards (crawling on walls)
• Mice / Rats (running races in cupboards)
• Mosquitoes and Flies (buzzing around)
• Cockroaches (creeping out from drains at night).
• Lizards (crawling on walls)
• Mice / Rats (running races in cupboards)
• Mosquitoes and Flies (buzzing around)
• Cockroaches (creeping out from drains at night).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
At least three accurate household pests named
3.0 M
Q6
Why is it important to sweep floors and empty dustbins daily in a house?
Home Cleanliness • Sanitation Rules
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Sanitation Rationale:
• Leftover food crumbs, dust, and trash attract mice, cockroaches, and flies, which carry harmful bacteria that contaminate food and cause illnesses. Daily sweeping and mopping keep the house healthy and pleasant.
• Leftover food crumbs, dust, and trash attract mice, cockroaches, and flies, which carry harmful bacteria that contaminate food and cause illnesses. Daily sweeping and mopping keep the house healthy and pleasant.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Pest attraction and bacterial contamination explained
1.5 M
Hygienic living environment emphasized
1.5 M
Q7
How do families decorate their houses on special occasions and festivals? Give two examples.
Decorating the House • Festive Rangoli
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
House Decoration:
1. Drawing colorful rangolis with flower petals and rice powder on the front porch.
2. Hanging fresh mango leaf torans (bandanwar) and lighting clay diyas along balconies.
1. Drawing colorful rangolis with flower petals and rice powder on the front porch.
2. Hanging fresh mango leaf torans (bandanwar) and lighting clay diyas along balconies.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two authentic Indian house decoration methods described
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 5 ('Chhotu's House'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Urban Homelessness and Community Empathy
Real-Life Context: Like Chhotu, many migrant workers come to big cities in search of work and live under flyovers, in pipes, or in makeshift tin shacks without clean piped water or proper toilets.
Analytical Task: What basic civic facilities should city governments provide in night shelters (Rain Baseras) to help homeless people live with dignity?
City governments should provide well-maintained night shelters (Rain Baseras) equipped with: (1) Clean, filtered potable drinking water taps. (2) Separate, hygienic restrooms with flushing toilets and running water. (3) Clean bedding, blankets in winter, and mosquito mesh windows. (4) Basic first-aid medical dispensary access. (5) Secure storage lockers so daily wage workers can keep their earnings and identification documents safe.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Compassionate understanding of migration, clean sanitation, dignity, essential civic shelter amenities (4 Marks).
6
Unit 2: Water & Food • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 6: Foods We Eat
Diversity of Indian Cuisines: Regional Staples (Rice, Wheat, Tapioca, Mustard Oil), Age-based Diets
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Staple foods depend on geography and climate: Rice in Kerala, West Bengal; Wheat and Bajra in Punjab, Rajasthan.
- Dietary needs change with age: Soft liquids (milk, dal water) for infants; light, soft food for the elderly; energetic meals for growing children.
- Unique regional delicacies: Tapioca and fish in Kerala, Sarson ka Saag and Makki ki Roti in Punjab, Momos in Sikkim.
- Family food sharing: Eating meals together and showing empathy when food is scarce.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Why can a 6-month-old baby and a 75-year-old grandmother not eat the same crispy fried corn cob (bhutta) as a 10-year-old child?
Age-Specific Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• 6-Month-Old Baby: Has no teeth and an underdeveloped digestive system, surviving primarily on mother's milk and liquid porridge.
• 75-Year-Old Grandmother: Often has missing or weak teeth and slower digestion, needing soft foods like dal-khichdi, mashed rotis, and stewed vegetables rather than hard corn.
• 10-Year-Old Child: Has strong, healthy teeth and high energy needs, easily chewing and digesting crunchy roasted corn.
• 75-Year-Old Grandmother: Often has missing or weak teeth and slower digestion, needing soft foods like dal-khichdi, mashed rotis, and stewed vegetables rather than hard corn.
• 10-Year-Old Child: Has strong, healthy teeth and high energy needs, easily chewing and digesting crunchy roasted corn.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Contrast of infant dental and digestive stage
1 Mark
Contrast of elderly dental and metabolic needs
1 Mark
Growing child's chewing capacity
1 Mark
Q2
Why do people living in Kerala eat a lot of rice and coconut, while people in Rajasthan eat bajra and lentils?
Regional Cuisines
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Dietary habits depend on local agricultural harvests and climate:
• Kerala: High coastal rainfall and fertile soils allow abundant paddy and coconut cultivation; hence, coconut curries and rice are staple foods.
• Rajasthan: A dry, arid desert climate with scarce rainfall allows drought-resistant millets like Bajra (pearl millet) and hardy pulses to thrive; hence, Bajre ki Roti and Dal-Baati are staples.
• Kerala: High coastal rainfall and fertile soils allow abundant paddy and coconut cultivation; hence, coconut curries and rice are staple foods.
• Rajasthan: A dry, arid desert climate with scarce rainfall allows drought-resistant millets like Bajra (pearl millet) and hardy pulses to thrive; hence, Bajre ki Roti and Dal-Baati are staples.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Connection between climate/soil and crop growth in Kerala
1.5 Marks
Connection between desert climate and drought-resistant crops in Rajasthan
1.5 Marks
Q3
What should you do if you notice that a classmate has not brought a lunch box to school?
Food Empathy
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
We should gently and politely invite our classmate to sit with us and share our meal, making sure they feel respected and cared for without feeling embarrassed.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Sharing food with dignity and empathy
2 Marks
Q4
In Vipul's family, why could his Dadi (grandmother) not eat hard bhutta (roasted corn cob)? What food was prepared for her instead?
Nutrition Across Ages • Foods We Eat
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Diet & Age:
• Dadi is very old and has lost most of her natural teeth, so she cannot chew hard, chewy roasted corn.
• For Dadi, her mother prepared soft dal with crushed chapatis soaked in it (dal-baati or dal-roti) with a little sugar, making it soft and easy to digest.
• Dadi is very old and has lost most of her natural teeth, so she cannot chew hard, chewy roasted corn.
• For Dadi, her mother prepared soft dal with crushed chapatis soaked in it (dal-baati or dal-roti) with a little sugar, making it soft and easy to digest.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Absence of teeth/weak gums explained
1.5 M
Soft soaked chapati in dal identified
1.5 M
Q5
Complete the table showing what different people can and cannot easily eat:
• 4-month-old Baby
• Young Sports Student
• Old Grandfather Diet Comparison • Baby vs Adult vs Elderly 3 Marks
• 4-month-old Baby
• Young Sports Student
• Old Grandfather Diet Comparison • Baby vs Adult vs Elderly 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Diet by Age Group:
| Person | What they CAN eat | What they CANNOT eat |
|---|---|---|
| 4-month-old Baby | Mother's milk (liquid food) | Chapatis, nuts, fruits, solid rice |
| Young Student | All hard and soft foods (corn, nuts, chapatis) | Can eat almost anything edible |
| Old Grandfather | Soft khichdi, soaked rotis, boiled vegetables | Hard nuts, hard bhutta, raw sugarcane |
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct diet entries for baby, student, and grandfather
3.0 M
Q6
Why do people in coastal Kerala eat tapioca and coconut curry, while people in Punjab eat wheat and mustard greens?
Regional Foods • Geographical Differences
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Geographical Food Habits:
• People eat what grows most abundantly and easily in their local climate and soil. Kerala's humid tropical coast is ideal for coconut trees and tapioca, while Punjab's fertile alluvial plains produce rich harvests of wheat and mustard.
• People eat what grows most abundantly and easily in their local climate and soil. Kerala's humid tropical coast is ideal for coconut trees and tapioca, while Punjab's fertile alluvial plains produce rich harvests of wheat and mustard.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and soil availability as key food determinant
1.5 M
Specific Kerala vs Punjab crop linkages explained
1.5 M
Q7
How do you know that you are genuinely hungry? Describe the feeling.
Food Etiquette • Hunger vs Boredom
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Physical Hunger:
• When genuinely hungry, our stomach feels empty and makes rumbling sounds, our body energy drops, and any simple healthy food (like plain roti and dal) looks delicious and satisfying.
• When genuinely hungry, our stomach feels empty and makes rumbling sounds, our body energy drops, and any simple healthy food (like plain roti and dal) looks delicious and satisfying.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Physical hunger sensations accurately described
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 6 ('Foods We Eat'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Nutritional Diversity: Millets as Climate-Resilient Superfoods
Real-Life Context: Under the National Millet Mission, schools are introducing traditional millets (Ragi, Jowar, Bajra) into the weekly school menu alongside wheat and rice.
Analytical Task: Why are millets nutritionally superior to polished white rice, and why are they environmentally friendly crops to grow?
Nutritional Advantages: Millets are rich in calcium, iron, and dietary fiber with a low glycemic index, preventing childhood anemia, bone weakness, and blood sugar spikes.
Environmental Benefits: Unlike water-guzzling crops like paddy (which require thousands of liters of flooded water per kilogram), millets are hardy, drought-tolerant grains that grow in dry, low-fertility soils with minimal rainwater and zero chemical fertilizers.
Environmental Benefits: Unlike water-guzzling crops like paddy (which require thousands of liters of flooded water per kilogram), millets are hardy, drought-tolerant grains that grow in dry, low-fertility soils with minimal rainwater and zero chemical fertilizers.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Nutritional superiority (calcium/iron/fiber) and climate resilience (low water/drought resistance) (4 Marks).
7
Unit 4: Communication & Expression • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 7: Saying Without Speaking
Non-Verbal Communication: Gestures, Facial Expressions, Sign Language, and Dance Mudras
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Expressing emotions without speech: Happiness, anger, sadness, fear, and surprise through face and eyes.
- Sign Language: How people with hearing or speech impairments communicate gracefully using standardized hand signs.
- Classical dance hand gestures (Mudras) and facial expressions (Bhavas) conveying animals, flowers, and stories.
- Empathy and inclusivity: Treating differently-abled friends with equal respect and equal opportunity.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
How can our face and eyes tell if a person is happy, angry, or scared without them saying a single word?
Facial Expressions
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Happiness: The mouth curves upward into a broad smile, cheek muscles lift, and eyes sparkle with pleasant creases.
• Anger: Eyebrows furrow together tightly in a scowl, forehead veins tense, lips press thin, and eyes open wide with a hard stare.
• Fear: Eyes widen in shock, pupils dilate, eyebrows raise high, and the mouth drops open slightly.
• Anger: Eyebrows furrow together tightly in a scowl, forehead veins tense, lips press thin, and eyes open wide with a hard stare.
• Fear: Eyes widen in shock, pupils dilate, eyebrows raise high, and the mouth drops open slightly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Detailed anatomical descriptions for happy, angry, and fearful expressions
3 Marks
Q2
What are 'Mudras' and 'Bhavas' in classical Indian dances like Bharatnatyam or Kathak?
Classical Mudras
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
In Indian classical dance:
• Mudras: Specific symbolic hand gestures used to depict natural objects (like a blooming lotus flower, a swimming fish, or a flying bird).
• Bhavas: Facial expressions that convey deep emotional stories (such as courage, devotion, joy, and wonder).
• Mudras: Specific symbolic hand gestures used to depict natural objects (like a blooming lotus flower, a swimming fish, or a flying bird).
• Bhavas: Facial expressions that convey deep emotional stories (such as courage, devotion, joy, and wonder).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition and role of hand Mudras
1.5 Marks
Definition and role of facial Bhavas
1.5 Marks
Q3
How does learning basic Sign Language help school children build stronger friendships?
Inclusivity & Sign Language
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Learning Sign Language bridges communication barriers, allowing children to converse directly with hearing-impaired classmates, play games together comfortably, and foster an inclusive classroom culture where everyone feels heard and valued.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Overcoming communication barriers and fostering inclusion
2 Marks
Q4
In the game 'Dumb Charades':
(a) How do players explain actions without uttering a single word?
(b) Who in our society communicates primarily through sign language? Non-Verbal Communication • Saying Without Speaking 3 Marks
(a) How do players explain actions without uttering a single word?
(b) Who in our society communicates primarily through sign language? Non-Verbal Communication • Saying Without Speaking 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Silent Communication:
(a) Dumb Charades:
• Players communicate using facial expressions, bodily gestures, hand movements, and eye signals to mime actions.
(b) Sign Language Users:
• People who have hearing impairments (cannot hear) and speech impairments (cannot speak) communicate beautifully using standardized Sign Language.
(a) Dumb Charades:
• Players communicate using facial expressions, bodily gestures, hand movements, and eye signals to mime actions.
(b) Sign Language Users:
• People who have hearing impairments (cannot hear) and speech impairments (cannot speak) communicate beautifully using standardized Sign Language.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Facial expressions and bodily gestures described
1.5 M
Sign language for hearing/speech impaired explained
1.5 M
Q5
In classical Indian dances (like Bharatanatyam and Kathakali), how do dancers tell entire stories without speaking?
Classical Dance • Mudras and Bhavas
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Mudras and Bhavas:
• Dancers use Mudras (symbolic hand gestures) and Bhavas (intense facial expressions) to depict nature, animals, emotions (joy, anger, sorrow, courage), and divine stories to the rhythm of music.
• Dancers use Mudras (symbolic hand gestures) and Bhavas (intense facial expressions) to depict nature, animals, emotions (joy, anger, sorrow, courage), and divine stories to the rhythm of music.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Role of Mudras (hand gestures) explained
1.5 M
Role of Bhavas (facial expressions) explained
1.5 M
Q6
Describe the facial expressions for:
(a) Joy / Happiness
(b) Anger
(c) Fear / Surprise Facial Expressions • Drawing Emotion Emojis 3 Marks
(a) Joy / Happiness
(b) Anger
(c) Fear / Surprise Facial Expressions • Drawing Emotion Emojis 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Facial Features of Emotion:
• (a) Happiness: Smiling curved lips showing teeth, relaxed forehead, twinkling eyes.
• (b) Anger: Knitted eyebrows drawn tightly together, frowning mouth, staring eyes.
• (c) Surprise / Fear: Wide open eyes, raised high eyebrows, open O-shaped mouth.
• (a) Happiness: Smiling curved lips showing teeth, relaxed forehead, twinkling eyes.
• (b) Anger: Knitted eyebrows drawn tightly together, frowning mouth, staring eyes.
• (c) Surprise / Fear: Wide open eyes, raised high eyebrows, open O-shaped mouth.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate eyebrow, mouth, and eye cues for all three emotions
3.0 M
Q7
How can we make our classroom welcoming for a classmate who cannot speak or hear well?
Inclusion & Empathy • Special Abilities
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Inclusive Classrooms:
1. Face the friend directly when speaking so they can read lips, and learn basic sign language gestures to communicate.
2. Always include them warmly in playground games, art, and lunch groups without mocking.
1. Face the friend directly when speaking so they can read lips, and learn basic sign language gestures to communicate.
2. Always include them warmly in playground games, art, and lunch groups without mocking.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two practical, empathetic, and inclusive classroom practices
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 7 ('Saying Without Speaking'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Creating Accessible and Inclusive School Environments
Real-Life Context: A national education survey shows that many children with hearing impairments drop out of regular schools because teachers lecture orally without visual aids or sign interpreters.
Analytical Task: Recommend three practical visual teaching methods that classroom teachers can adopt to make lessons accessible to students with hearing impairments.
Teachers can adopt universal inclusive practices: (1) Rich Visual Demonstrations: Use illustrated charts, infographics, subtitles on video clips, and step-by-step whiteboard diagrams for all core explanations. (2) Face the Class While Speaking: Maintain clear line-of-sight so students can lip-read easily without the teacher turning their back toward the board while talking. (3) Peer Sign Buddies: Teach the entire class basic Indian Sign Language alphabets and greetings so classmates can assist and interact comfortably during group projects.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Visual pedagogy, lip-reading accessibility, peer sign language integration (4 Marks).
8
Unit 1: Animals & Habitats • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 8: Flying High
Avian Diversity: Beak Shapes, Feathers, Flying Habits, Claws, and Ecological Roles
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Diverse bird beaks adapted to food: Hooked beaks for meat (Eagle), curved beaks for cracking nuts (Parrot), needle beaks for nectar (Sunbird), flat beaks for filtering mud (Duck).
- Feather functions: Flight feathers on wings, down feathers keeping the body warm, and tail feathers steering like a rudder.
- Unique bird traits: The Owl can rotate its head almost fully backward; the Myna jerks its neck back and forth.
- The role of scavenger birds (Vultures, Crows) as 'nature's sanitation squad' cleaning carcasses.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Why do different birds have different shapes of beaks? Explain with three examples.
Beak Adaptations
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Different birds have different beak shapes because their beaks are specialized biological tools adapted to their specific diet:
1. Eagle / Vulture: Strong, sharp, hooked beaks to tear through tough meat and flesh.
2. Parrot: Hard, hooked curved beak to crack open tough nutshells and bite into hard green fruits.
3. Woodpecker: Long, straight, chisel-like beak to peck deep holes into tree bark to pull out hidden wood-boring insects.
1. Eagle / Vulture: Strong, sharp, hooked beaks to tear through tough meat and flesh.
2. Parrot: Hard, hooked curved beak to crack open tough nutshells and bite into hard green fruits.
3. Woodpecker: Long, straight, chisel-like beak to peck deep holes into tree bark to pull out hidden wood-boring insects.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Explanation of dietary adaptation principle
1.5 Marks
Three accurate bird-beak functional pairings
1.5 Marks
Q2
What are the two main purposes of feathers on a bird's body?
Feather Functions
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Flight & Steering: Strong, broad flight feathers on wings and tail give aerodynamic lift and help steer direction in the air.
2. Thermal Insulation & Weatherproofing: Soft, fluffy down feathers close to the skin trap warm air to protect the bird from freezing cold and shed water droplets during rain.
2. Thermal Insulation & Weatherproofing: Soft, fluffy down feathers close to the skin trap warm air to protect the bird from freezing cold and shed water droplets during rain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Flight aerodynamic role
1.5 Marks
Thermal insulation and waterproofing role
1.5 Marks
Q3
Which bird can turn its head around backwards to see behind itself, and which bird is known for copying human speech?
Unique Avian Facts
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
The Owl can rotate its head around almost completely (up to 270 degrees) to observe behind itself, and the Parrot is famous for imitating and repeating human speech.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of the Owl and Parrot with correct traits
2 Marks
Q4
Solve the bird riddles from Chapter 8:
(a) 'On my head I have a crest, all say I dance the best. Of my feathers I am proud, before the rain I cry aloud.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(b) 'Long and grooved is my tail, high up in the sky I sail. I pick and eat all the mice.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(c) 'My beak is pink, feathers grey, Guter-goo I go on all day.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(d) 'In the trunk of trees holes I make, hidden insects I intake. Tuk-tuk-tuk goes my work.' $\rightarrow$ _____ Bird Riddles • Flying High 4 Marks
(a) 'On my head I have a crest, all say I dance the best. Of my feathers I am proud, before the rain I cry aloud.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(b) 'Long and grooved is my tail, high up in the sky I sail. I pick and eat all the mice.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(c) 'My beak is pink, feathers grey, Guter-goo I go on all day.' $\rightarrow$ _____
(d) 'In the trunk of trees holes I make, hidden insects I intake. Tuk-tuk-tuk goes my work.' $\rightarrow$ _____ Bird Riddles • Flying High 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Bird Riddle Solutions:
• (a) Peacock (National Bird of India)
• (b) Eagle / Kite
• (c) Pigeon
• (d) Woodpecker
• (a) Peacock (National Bird of India)
• (b) Eagle / Kite
• (c) Pigeon
• (d) Woodpecker
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct bird identification for (a) and (b)
2.0 M
Correct bird identification for (c) and (d)
2.0 M
Q5
Match each bird's beak shape to the food it eats:
• Eagle/Vulture: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud]
• Sparrow/Pigeon: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud]
• Sunbird/Hummingbird: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud]
• Duck: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud] Bird Beaks • Adaptation to Diet 4 Marks
• Eagle/Vulture: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud]
• Sparrow/Pigeon: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud]
• Sunbird/Hummingbird: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud]
• Duck: [Short strong beak for cracking seeds, Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat, Long slender beak for sucking nectar, Flat broad beak for scooping mud] Bird Beaks • Adaptation to Diet 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Beak Adaptations:
• Eagle/Vulture: Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat.
• Sparrow/Pigeon: Short, strong cone-shaped beak for cracking seeds.
• Sunbird: Long, curved, slender beak for sipping flower nectar.
• Duck: Flat broad beak with strainer holes for filtering insects and worms from water mud.
• Eagle/Vulture: Hooked sharp beak for tearing meat.
• Sparrow/Pigeon: Short, strong cone-shaped beak for cracking seeds.
• Sunbird: Long, curved, slender beak for sipping flower nectar.
• Duck: Flat broad beak with strainer holes for filtering insects and worms from water mud.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 beak-diet adaptations correctly matched
4.0 M
Q6
What two essential functions do feathers perform for a bird?
Bird Feathers • Flight and Warmth
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Functions of Feathers:
1. Flight: Long, strong wing and tail feathers provide lift and balance, enabling birds to fly and steer.
2. Body Warmth & Waterproofing: Soft down feathers trap a layer of warm air against the body, keeping the bird warm during cold nights and shedding rainwater.
1. Flight: Long, strong wing and tail feathers provide lift and balance, enabling birds to fly and steer.
2. Body Warmth & Waterproofing: Soft down feathers trap a layer of warm air against the body, keeping the bird warm during cold nights and shedding rainwater.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Flight mechanism explained
1.0 M
Thermal insulation/waterproofing explained
1.0 M
Q7
What special ability does an owl have regarding its eyes and neck?
Owl's Unique Feature • Neck Rotation
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Owl's Anatomy:
• An owl cannot move its eyes inside its sockets, so nature has gifted it a flexible neck that can rotate up to 270 degrees backward to see all around silently in the dark.
• An owl cannot move its eyes inside its sockets, so nature has gifted it a flexible neck that can rotate up to 270 degrees backward to see all around silently in the dark.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Fixed eyes and 270-degree neck rotation explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 8 ('Flying High'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Avian Conservation: The Vanishing House Sparrow
Real-Life Context: Old grandparents recall that when they were children, dozens of chirping house sparrows nested inside ceiling ventilators and ate dropped rice grains in courtyards. Today, house sparrows have largely disappeared from modern glass-fronted concrete cities.
Analytical Task: Analyze the environmental causes behind the decline of urban sparrows and recommend two citizen actions to bring them back.
Causes of Sparrow Decline: (1) Modern matchbox-style concrete houses lack open ventilators and eaves, leaving no safe nesting crevices. (2) Heavy chemical gardening pesticides kill small green caterpillars that mother sparrows feed to newly hatched chicks. (3) Excessive concrete paving eliminates open soil patches where birds dust-bathe and forage for grass seeds.
Citizen Actions: Install artificial wooden nest boxes under balcony roofs, keep a regular terracotta water and millet feeder, and plant native green shrubs in gardens.
Citizen Actions: Install artificial wooden nest boxes under balcony roofs, keep a regular terracotta water and millet feeder, and plant native green shrubs in gardens.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Urban architecture impact, pesticide elimination of insect food, practical nesting/feeding mitigation (4 Marks).
9
Unit 2: Water & Food • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 9: It's Raining
Appu the Elephant Waters the Dying Banana Trees: Rain and Plant Revival
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Plants droop and leaves turn brown when they do not receive water during long dry spells.
- Appu the elephant using his trunk to fill river water and shower dying banana trees until they turn green again.
- The arrival of rain clouds: Transforming parched brown landscapes into lush green living gardens.
- Clouds can appear in different shapes (elephants, horses, fleece) and bring joyful rainbows with 7 colors.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Why were the banana trees drooping and how did Appu help them?
Story Comprehension
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
The banana trees were drooping and withering because it had not rained for a long time and the soil had completely dried up. Appu bathed in the river, drank water to his fill, filled his long trunk with river water, and poured it over the thirsty roots of the banana trees until they perked up, turned lush green, and gave sweet bananas again.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Explanation of drought and wilting trees
1.5 Marks
Appu's actions using his trunk to irrigate trees
1.5 Marks
Q2
When does a rainbow appear in the sky, and what are its seven constituent colors?
Rainbow Science
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
A rainbow appears in the sky opposite the sun right after a rain shower when sunlight passes through microscopic airborne raindrops that act as natural glass prisms.
Seven Colors (VIBGYOR): Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, and Red.
Seven Colors (VIBGYOR): Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, and Red.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Conditions for rainbow formation (sunlight + rain droplets acting as prisms)
1.5 Marks
Correct listing of 7 VIBGYOR colors
1.5 Marks
Q3
How do street trees get water when nobody waters them with hose pipes?
Nature Sensitivity
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Street trees develop deep taproot systems that penetrate deep into the subterranean soil layers to absorb groundwater. During the rainy season, rainfall naturally quenches their thirst and recharges the surrounding soil.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Deep taproots absorbing underground water
1 Mark
Rainwater recharge
1 Mark
Q4
In 'It's Raining':
(a) Why were the banana trees in the jungle drooping?
(b) How did Appu the elephant revive the dying banana trees? Story Comprehension • Appu Ate Bananas 3 Marks
(a) Why were the banana trees in the jungle drooping?
(b) How did Appu the elephant revive the dying banana trees? Story Comprehension • Appu Ate Bananas 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Story Details:
(a) Drooping Trees:
• The banana trees were drooping and drying up because it had not rained for a very long time in the forest.
(b) Appu's Rescue:
• Appu loved eating ripe bananas. He went to the river, drank his fill, and filled his long trunk with water. He carried the water back and sprayed it like a shower all over the banana roots until the trees stood upright and fresh again.
(a) Drooping Trees:
• The banana trees were drooping and drying up because it had not rained for a very long time in the forest.
(b) Appu's Rescue:
• Appu loved eating ripe bananas. He went to the river, drank his fill, and filled his long trunk with water. He carried the water back and sprayed it like a shower all over the banana roots until the trees stood upright and fresh again.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Drought and lack of rain noted
1.5 M
Appu carrying water in trunk and showering trees explained
1.5 M
Q5
How do clouds form in the sky on hot summer days?
The Water Cycle & Clouds • Atmosphere
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Cloud Formation (Evaporation & Condensation):
• The hot sun heats water in rivers, ponds, and seas, causing water to evaporate into invisible water vapor that rises high into the sky.
• High up in the cold air, this water vapor cools down and condenses into billions of microscopic water droplets, which cluster together to form white and grey clouds.
• The hot sun heats water in rivers, ponds, and seas, causing water to evaporate into invisible water vapor that rises high into the sky.
• High up in the cold air, this water vapor cools down and condenses into billions of microscopic water droplets, which cluster together to form white and grey clouds.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Evaporation of water into vapor
1.5 M
Condensation into water droplets forming clouds
1.5 M
Q6
(a) When does a rainbow appear in the sky?
(b) Write the seven colors of the rainbow in order (VIBGYOR). Rainbow Formation • Sunlight & Raindrops 3 Marks
(b) Write the seven colors of the rainbow in order (VIBGYOR). Rainbow Formation • Sunlight & Raindrops 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rainbow Science:
(a) Occurrence:
• A rainbow appears when sunlight shines through falling raindrops directly opposite the sun in the sky.
(b) 7 Colors (VIBGYOR):
• Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red.
(a) Occurrence:
• A rainbow appears when sunlight shines through falling raindrops directly opposite the sun in the sky.
(b) 7 Colors (VIBGYOR):
• Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Sunlight passing through raindrops opposite the sun
1.5 M
All 7 VIBGYOR colors in correct order
1.5 M
Q7
What do children enjoy doing when the first monsoon showers arrive?
Rainy Day Delights • Children's Activities
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Monsoon Joys:
• Children enjoy dancing and splashing in cool puddles, floating paper boats in running rainwater streams, and smelling the fresh earthy fragrance of wet soil (petrichor).
• Children enjoy dancing and splashing in cool puddles, floating paper boats in running rainwater streams, and smelling the fresh earthy fragrance of wet soil (petrichor).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Paper boats, puddle splashing, and soil fragrance described
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 9 ('It's Raining'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Ecosystem Stewardship: Animals as Forest Gardeners
Real-Life Context: Appu the elephant watered banana trees in the story. In real tropical forests, wild elephants eat ripe fruits and walk dozens of kilometers daily, dropping seeds in large piles of nutritious dung.
Analytical Task: How do wild elephants act as 'engineers of the forest' in real ecosystems?
Wild elephants are true ecosystem engineers and forest gardeners: (1) Seed Dispersal: They consume fruits from hundreds of tree species and carry the seeds inside their digestive tracts over long distances, depositing them in fertile dung beds that sprout into new forest trees. (2) Creating Waterholes: During severe droughts, elephants use their feet and tusks to dig deep pits in dry riverbeds, exposing subterranean water that saves thousands of smaller birds, deer, and monkeys.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Ecological role of elephants, seed dispersal over vast distances, digging waterholes during droughts (4 Marks).
10
Unit 2: Water & Food • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 10: What is Cooking
Culinary Methods: Boiling, Frying, Roasting, Steaming, Baking; Utensil Materials and Fuels
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Different methods of cooking: Boiling (potatoes/rice), Roasting (rotis/corn), Steaming (idli/dhokla), Frying (puri/samosa), and Baking (cakes/bread).
- Cooking utensil materials: Clay earthenware, copper, brass, stainless steel, cast iron, and glass.
- Cooking fuels and stoves: LPG gas cylinders, solar cookers, electric induction stoves, and traditional chulhas using firewood or cow-dung cakes.
- Safety in the kitchen: Turning off gas knobs, keeping flammable cloth away from flames, avoiding burns.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Classify the following foods according to their method of cooking: Idli, Samosa, Roti, Boiled Rice, Cake, Roasted Corn.
Cooking Methods
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Steaming: Idli.
• Deep Frying: Samosa.
• Roasting: Roti, Roasted Corn (Bhutta).
• Boiling: Boiled Rice.
• Baking: Cake.
• Deep Frying: Samosa.
• Roasting: Roti, Roasted Corn (Bhutta).
• Boiling: Boiled Rice.
• Baking: Cake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct pairing for all six food items
3 Marks
Q2
Why are clay pots considered healthier for slow cooking than aluminum utensils?
Cooking Utensil Materials
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Clay pots are alkaline and react gently with the natural acids in food, neutralizing acidity while preserving micronutrients. The porous clay allows moisture and heat to circulate evenly. In contrast, cheap aluminum pans can leach small amounts of toxic metal into acidic foods over time.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Benefits of porous, alkaline clay cookware
1.5 Marks
Drawbacks of metal leaching in cheap aluminum
1.5 Marks
Q3
What is a solar cooker and what are two major advantages of using it?
Clean Cooking Energy
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
A solar cooker is an insulated black-painted box with a glass lid and mirror reflector that traps solar heat to cook food without firewood or gas.
Advantages:
1. Zero fuel cost and zero smoke pollution.
2. Preserves vitamins and prevents food from burning.
Advantages:
1. Zero fuel cost and zero smoke pollution.
2. Preserves vitamins and prevents food from burning.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of solar cooker
1 Mark
Two advantages (zero pollution, nutrient retention)
1 Mark
Q4
Match each food dish with its primary cooking method:
• Idli: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking]
• Puri: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking]
• Rice / Dal: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking]
• Chapati: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking] Cooking Methods • Culinary Science 4 Marks
• Idli: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking]
• Puri: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking]
• Rice / Dal: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking]
• Chapati: [Boiling, Steaming, Deep Frying, Roasting/Baking] Cooking Methods • Culinary Science 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Cooking Methods:
• Idli: Steaming
• Puri: Deep Frying (in hot oil)
• Rice / Dal: Boiling (in water)
• Chapati: Roasting / Baking (on tawa)
• Idli: Steaming
• Puri: Deep Frying (in hot oil)
• Rice / Dal: Boiling (in water)
• Chapati: Roasting / Baking (on tawa)
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 cooking methods correctly matched
4.0 M
Q5
Look at common cooking vessels. Why are frying pans made of iron, steel, or aluminum, but their handles are covered with wood or plastic?
Cooking Utensils • Material Identification
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Thermal Conduction Science:
• Vessel Body: Iron, steel, and aluminum are good conductors of heat, so they quickly transfer cooking heat from the stove flame to the food.
• Handles: Wood and plastic are insulators (poor conductors of heat). They stay cool, allowing the cook to lift and hold the hot pan safely without burning their hands.
• Vessel Body: Iron, steel, and aluminum are good conductors of heat, so they quickly transfer cooking heat from the stove flame to the food.
• Handles: Wood and plastic are insulators (poor conductors of heat). They stay cool, allowing the cook to lift and hold the hot pan safely without burning their hands.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Good thermal conductivity of metals for cooking
1.5 M
Insulating plastic/wood handles protecting hands from burns
1.5 M
Q6
Compare an LPG gas stove with a traditional wood chulha in terms of cleanliness and health.
Cooking Fuels • Clean Energy
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Fuel Comparison:
• LPG Gas Stove: Burns with a clean, smokeless blue flame, produces no indoor soot, cooks quickly, and protects women's lungs and eyes from disease.
• Wood Chulha: Produces heavy suffocating smoke, releases harmful carbon soot that turns kitchen walls black, and causes respiratory and eye damage.
• LPG Gas Stove: Burns with a clean, smokeless blue flame, produces no indoor soot, cooks quickly, and protects women's lungs and eyes from disease.
• Wood Chulha: Produces heavy suffocating smoke, releases harmful carbon soot that turns kitchen walls black, and causes respiratory and eye damage.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
LPG clean blue flame and health benefits
1.5 M
Wood smoke pollution and lung damage explained
1.5 M
Q7
How does a solar cooker cook food without using any wood, coal, electricity, or gas?
Solar Cooker • Renewable Energy
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Solar Cooker:
• A solar cooker has a black-painted insulated box and a mirror reflector that traps the radiant heat of sunlight under a glass sheet (greenhouse effect), slowly baking dal, rice, or vegetables cleanly using free solar energy.
• A solar cooker has a black-painted insulated box and a mirror reflector that traps the radiant heat of sunlight under a glass sheet (greenhouse effect), slowly baking dal, rice, or vegetables cleanly using free solar energy.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Mirror reflector, black box, and trapped solar heat explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 10 ('What is Cooking'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Clean Indoor Air: Transitioning from Wood Chulha to LPG (PM Ujjwala Yojana)
Real-Life Context: In many rural homes, women cook on unventilated firewood chulhas, inhaling smoke equivalent to smoking dozens of cigarettes daily, causing eye irritation and chronic lung illnesses.
Analytical Task: Why is switching to clean cooking gas (LPG) or biogas critical for women's health and environmental protection?
Switching from smoky wood chulhas to LPG or biogas is vital because: (1) Health Protection: It eliminates harmful soot, carbon monoxide, and smoke particles, preventing asthma, lung damage, and eye cataracts in mothers and infants. (2) Forest Conservation: It halts the cutting of firewood, preserving neighborhood trees and topsoil. (3) Time and Labor Savings: It saves women hours of arduous firewood gathering, allowing more time for childcare, education, and rest.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Respiratory health benefits of smokeless fuel, halting deforestation, social empowerment (4 Marks).
11
Unit 5: Travel, Work & Community • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 11: From Here to There
Poem 'The Train' by Harendranath Chattopadhyay: Land, Water, Air Transport, and Animal-Drawn Carts
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Means of transport on land: Bicycles, scooters, cars, buses, electric metro trains, and railways.
- Water and air transport: Boats, ferries, ships, airplanes, and helicopters.
- Traditional and rural transports: Camel carts in deserts, bullock carts in villages, tongas, and shikaras in lakes.
- Emergency service vehicles: Ambulances, fire engines, and police patrol cars with sirens.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Classify vehicles based on the medium they travel through: (a) Land (b) Water (c) Air. Give two examples of each.
Modes of Transport
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Land Transport: Bus, Metro Train, Bicycle, Car.
• Water Transport: Cargo Ship, Ferry, Speedboat, Shikara.
• Air Transport: Aeroplane, Helicopter, Hot Air Balloon.
• Water Transport: Cargo Ship, Ferry, Speedboat, Shikara.
• Air Transport: Aeroplane, Helicopter, Hot Air Balloon.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct classification and examples for land, water, and air
3 Marks
Q2
Name two emergency vehicles and explain why other traffic must always give way to them.
Emergency Vehicles
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Ambulance: Carries critically sick or injured patients to hospital emergency wards.
2. Fire Engine: Carries firefighters and high-pressure water pumps to put out blazing building fires.
Traffic must give way because every single second lost in a traffic jam can mean the loss of human lives or severe property destruction.
2. Fire Engine: Carries firefighters and high-pressure water pumps to put out blazing building fires.
Traffic must give way because every single second lost in a traffic jam can mean the loss of human lives or severe property destruction.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of Ambulance and Fire Engine
1.5 Marks
Critical life-saving reason to yield traffic priority
1.5 Marks
Q3
Why is riding a bicycle or using public electric metro trains better for city life than driving personal petrol cars?
Eco-Friendly Commuting
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Bicycles and electric metros do not burn petrol or diesel, so they produce zero toxic exhaust smoke, lower greenhouse gases, eliminate noisy traffic honking, and keep people physically fit.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reduction of air pollution and traffic congestion
1 Mark
Health and physical fitness benefit
1 Mark
Q4
Classify the following 6 vehicles into Land, Water, and Air Transport:
Helicopter, Bullock cart, Speedboat, Metro train, Cargo ship, Aeroplane. Transport Modes • Land, Water, and Air 3 Marks
Helicopter, Bullock cart, Speedboat, Metro train, Cargo ship, Aeroplane. Transport Modes • Land, Water, and Air 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Transport Classification:
• Land Transport: Bullock cart, Metro train.
• Water Transport: Speedboat, Cargo ship.
• Air Transport: Helicopter, Aeroplane.
• Land Transport: Bullock cart, Metro train.
• Water Transport: Speedboat, Cargo ship.
• Air Transport: Helicopter, Aeroplane.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two correct land vehicles
1.0 M
Two correct water vehicles
1.0 M
Two correct air vehicles
1.0 M
Q5
Group these vehicles by the number of wheels they have:
Bicycle, Auto-rickshaw, Car, Bullock cart, Motorcycle, Bus.
• 2 Wheels
• 3 Wheels
• 4 Wheels
• 6 Wheels Vehicle Wheels • Number of Wheels 4 Marks
Bicycle, Auto-rickshaw, Car, Bullock cart, Motorcycle, Bus.
• 2 Wheels
• 3 Wheels
• 4 Wheels
• 6 Wheels Vehicle Wheels • Number of Wheels 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Wheels Classification:
• 2 Wheels: Bicycle, Motorcycle, Bullock cart.
• 3 Wheels: Auto-rickshaw (or Cycle-rickshaw).
• 4 Wheels: Car.
• 6 Wheels: Bus (or heavy truck).
• 2 Wheels: Bicycle, Motorcycle, Bullock cart.
• 3 Wheels: Auto-rickshaw (or Cycle-rickshaw).
• 4 Wheels: Car.
• 6 Wheels: Bus (or heavy truck).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All vehicles correctly grouped by wheel counts
4.0 M
Q6
Match each emergency vehicle with its service and telephone helpline number:
• Police PCR Van: [Number 100 / 112 - Crime and safety, Number 101 - Firefighting, Number 102 / 108 - Medical emergencies]
• Fire Engine: [Number 100 / 112 - Crime and safety, Number 101 - Firefighting, Number 102 / 108 - Medical emergencies]
• Ambulance: [Number 100 / 112 - Crime and safety, Number 101 - Firefighting, Number 102 / 108 - Medical emergencies] Emergency Vehicles • Helplines 3 Marks
• Police PCR Van: [Number 100 / 112 - Crime and safety, Number 101 - Firefighting, Number 102 / 108 - Medical emergencies]
• Fire Engine: [Number 100 / 112 - Crime and safety, Number 101 - Firefighting, Number 102 / 108 - Medical emergencies]
• Ambulance: [Number 100 / 112 - Crime and safety, Number 101 - Firefighting, Number 102 / 108 - Medical emergencies] Emergency Vehicles • Helplines 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Emergency Services:
• Police PCR Van: Dial 100 / 112 for crime report and immediate citizen protection.
• Fire Engine: Dial 101 to extinguish fires and rescue trapped people.
• Ambulance: Dial 102 / 108 to rush critically ill or injured patients to the hospital.
• Police PCR Van: Dial 100 / 112 for crime report and immediate citizen protection.
• Fire Engine: Dial 101 to extinguish fires and rescue trapped people.
• Ambulance: Dial 102 / 108 to rush critically ill or injured patients to the hospital.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct helpline numbers and roles for all 3 emergency vehicles
3.0 M
Q7
How can children make a toy train using empty matchboxes?
Matchbox Train Craft Activity
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matchbox Train Craft:
1. Connect 4 to 5 empty matchbox drawers in a line using strips of paper or thread as couplings.
2. Glue circular bottle caps or cardboard circles on both sides of each matchbox to serve as wheels.
3. Paste a thread spool or upright cardboard cylinder on the front box to act as the engine chimney.
1. Connect 4 to 5 empty matchbox drawers in a line using strips of paper or thread as couplings.
2. Glue circular bottle caps or cardboard circles on both sides of each matchbox to serve as wheels.
3. Paste a thread spool or upright cardboard cylinder on the front box to act as the engine chimney.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Connecting matchbox carriages with bottle-cap wheels described
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 11 ('From Here to There'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Geographical Adaptations in Transportation: Reaching School in Remote Terrains
Real-Life Context: Children in snowy Ladakh travel to school on sledges; children in mountainous Uttarakhand walk across precarious rocky trails; children in riverine Assam cross flooded rivers on bamboo bridges (sanko).
Analytical Task: How do humans adapt their means of transport to diverse physical geographies and extreme climates?
Human ingenuity devises transport solutions suited to specific terrains: (1) Desert Sands: Wide, padded hooves of camels make camel carts ideal for shifting sand dunes. (2) River Networks (Kerala/Assam): Wooden boats (vallam) and lightweight bamboo suspension bridges allow communities to cross wetlands without costly concrete bridges. (3) Snowy Mountains: Sturdy yaks, snowmobiles, and ropeway cable cars traverse sheer icy ravines where wheeled road buses cannot operate safely.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Geographical adaptation of transport, local natural resources, resilience in extreme terrains (4 Marks).
12
Unit 5: Travel, Work & Community • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 12: Work We Do
Community Helpers and Occupations: Doctors, Sweepers, Postmen, Traffic Police, and Child Rights
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Community helpers and essential public occupations: Doctors, nurses, teachers, sweepers, postmen, shopkeepers, and traffic police.
- Interdependence: No community can function without the collective contributions of all workers.
- The importance of education: Every child has the fundamental right to go to school instead of being forced into child labor (tea stalls/brick kilns).
- Treating community sanitary workers with respect and dignity.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Describe the crucial role played by sanitation workers (safai karamcharis) in keeping towns healthy.
Community Roles
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Sanitation workers wake up before dawn to sweep dusty public streets, clear choked municipal drains, and collect household garbage. If they stopped working for even two days, streets would overflow with rotting waste, flies and mosquitoes would multiply uncontrollably, and dangerous disease epidemics like dengue, malaria, and cholera would spread.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Specific duties (sweeping, drain cleaning, garbage clearing)
1.5 Marks
Public health consequence if work stops (epidemics/rot)
1.5 Marks
Q2
Why is child labor illegal, and what should be done if you see a young child washing dishes at a tea stall instead of being in school?
Child Rights and Child Labor
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Child labor is illegal because every child has the fundamental constitutional right to free education, recreation, and healthy physical development. Working in dangerous, exhausting conditions ruins children's futures. We should inform school authorities, local child welfare committees, or call the Childline Helpline (1098) so the child can be rescued and enrolled in a school.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Fundamental right to education and hazards of child labor
1.5 Marks
Actionable reporting via Childline 1098 or authorities
1.5 Marks
Q3
What does the phrase 'Dignity of Labor' mean in our daily society?
Dignity of Labor
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
It means that every honest type of work—whether done by a surgeon, an engineer, a farmer, or a street sweeper—is equally respectable and worthy of honor. No honest work is low or inferior.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Equal respect for all honest occupations without discrimination
2 Marks
Q4
In 'Work We Do', Deepali cannot go to school. Why? Describe her daily chores.
Daily Labor • Deepali's Routine
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Deepali's Routine & Responsibilities:
• Deepali is the eldest sister. Her father sells vegetables and her mother washes utensils in homes. Deepali has to stay home to cook food for the family, clean the house, and look after her three younger brothers and sisters.
• Even though she loves learning and books, her heavy family responsibilities forced her to leave school.
• Deepali is the eldest sister. Her father sells vegetables and her mother washes utensils in homes. Deepali has to stay home to cook food for the family, clean the house, and look after her three younger brothers and sisters.
• Even though she loves learning and books, her heavy family responsibilities forced her to leave school.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Eldest child carrying sibling care and chores
1.5 M
Parental poverty causing drop out of school
1.5 M
Q5
Look at the picture of the bustling city square in the chapter. Name four community workers working there and their occupations.
Bustling Neighborhood Scene • Community Workers
4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Neighborhood Workers:
1. Postwoman / Postman: Sorting and delivering mail.
2. Traffic Police Officer: Directing vehicles and pedestrians at the intersection.
3. Doctor and Nurse: Treating patients at the neighborhood dispensary.
4. Cobbler (Mochi): Sitting under a roadside tree polishing and stitching worn shoes.
1. Postwoman / Postman: Sorting and delivering mail.
2. Traffic Police Officer: Directing vehicles and pedestrians at the intersection.
3. Doctor and Nurse: Treating patients at the neighborhood dispensary.
4. Cobbler (Mochi): Sitting under a roadside tree polishing and stitching worn shoes.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Four distinct community workers with accurate roles
4.0 M
Q6
Why should every child below 14 years be in school rather than working for money?
Right to Education • Child Labor vs School
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Child Rights & Education:
• Childhood is the time for growth, play, and learning. Under the Indian Constitution (Right to Education Act), every child has the fundamental right to free, quality education. Child labor deprives children of their future and harms their physical and mental health.
• Childhood is the time for growth, play, and learning. Under the Indian Constitution (Right to Education Act), every child has the fundamental right to free, quality education. Child labor deprives children of their future and harms their physical and mental health.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Right to Education Act cited
1.5 M
Physical, emotional, and future empowerment rationale
1.5 M
Q7
At what time do you usually wake up, leave for school, and go to sleep?
Clock Routine • Daily Time Management
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Personal Time Schedule:
• Wake up: 6:15 AM
• Leave for school: 7:30 AM
• Go to sleep: 9:30 PM.
• Wake up: 6:15 AM
• Leave for school: 7:30 AM
• Go to sleep: 9:30 PM.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Realistic, healthy daily timetable values
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 12 ('Work We Do'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Community Interdependence: When Public Services Halt
Real-Life Context: During a torrential rainstorm, municipal sanitation workers, electricity linemen, and water pipeline mechanics work knee-deep in water all night to restore power and unblock sewage drains.
Analytical Task: How does this event illustrate that our daily comforts depend entirely on unseen, hardworking community helpers?
Modern life is an interconnected web where no individual is self-sufficient. While we rest safely indoors, linemen risk electrical shocks to restore power and municipal workers brave filthy drains to prevent urban flooding. Recognizing this interdependence shatters social prejudices and reminds us to treat every community worker with profound gratitude, courtesy, and fair living wages.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Appreciation of community interdependence, frontline workers' sacrifice, moral dignity of labor (4 Marks).
13
Unit 4: Communication & Expression • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 13: Sharing Our Feelings
Seema's Family and Blind Ravi Bhaiya: Empathy, Braille Script, and Care for Elders
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Understanding the sensory world of visually impaired individuals: Highly developed senses of touch and hearing.
- The White Cane: A symbol of independence and tool for detecting obstacles on walking paths.
- The Braille Script: Invented by Louis Braille, read by gliding fingertips over raised dots arranged in a 6-dot cell.
- Caring for aging family members with failing vision or joint pain through love, patience, and respect.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Who was Louis Braille, and how does the Braille script help blind people read and write?
Braille Script History
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Louis Braille: A blind French scholar who lost his eyesight in a childhood accident and devised a revolutionary reading system for visually impaired people in 1824.
How Braille Works: Braille is embossed on thick paper using rows of raised dots based on a 6-dot cell system. By lightly running their sensitive fingertips across the patterns of raised dots, blind people read letters, numbers, and books just as quickly as sighted readers.
How Braille Works: Braille is embossed on thick paper using rows of raised dots based on a 6-dot cell system. By lightly running their sensitive fingertips across the patterns of raised dots, blind people read letters, numbers, and books just as quickly as sighted readers.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of Louis Braille
1 Mark
Explanation of the 6 raised dot cell touch system
2 Marks
Q2
How does Ravi Bhaiya recognize different people without seeing them?
Independence and Mobility
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Ravi Bhaiya relies on his keenly trained hearing and touch. He identifies people by the distinct sound of their footsteps, their breathing patterns, the timbre of their voices, and even their body perfumes. By touching a person's hand or shoulders, he immediately senses whether they are happy, anxious, or tired.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Auditory cues (footsteps, voice tone, breathing)
1.5 Marks
Tactile sensitivity and emotional empathy
1.5 Marks
Q3
What should you do when you see a person with a white cane waiting to cross a busy road?
Pedestrian Etiquette
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
We should gently approach them, introduce ourselves politely, ask if they would like assistance, and if they agree, offer our elbow for them to hold while guiding them safely across the zebra crossing without yanking their cane.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Polite consent before helping
1 Mark
Guiding via elbow rather than grabbing the cane
1 Mark
Q4
In 'Sharing Our Feelings':
(a) What does Ravi Bhaiya carry when going out, and what is his profession?
(b) How does Ravi Bhaiya recognize who has entered the room without seeing? Special Needs • Ravi Bhaiya's Independence 3 Marks
(a) What does Ravi Bhaiya carry when going out, and what is his profession?
(b) How does Ravi Bhaiya recognize who has entered the room without seeing? Special Needs • Ravi Bhaiya's Independence 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Ravi Bhaiya's Capabilities:
(a) Career & Equipment:
• Ravi Bhaiya carries a white cane for tapping obstacles and safe navigation. He is a respected college lecturer who teaches college students.
(b) Auditory Recognition:
• He has developed acute hearing. He recognizes people immediately by the sound of their footsteps, breathing pattern, and the tone of their greeting.
(a) Career & Equipment:
• Ravi Bhaiya carries a white cane for tapping obstacles and safe navigation. He is a respected college lecturer who teaches college students.
(b) Auditory Recognition:
• He has developed acute hearing. He recognizes people immediately by the sound of their footsteps, breathing pattern, and the tone of their greeting.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
White cane and college lecturer career
1.5 M
Recognition by footsteps and auditory acuity
1.5 M
Q5
What is Braille Script? How is it read, and who invented it?
Braille Script • Louis Braille
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Braille Script Facts:
• Definition: Braille is a tactile writing system where characters are represented by combinations of raised dots on thick paper.
• How it is read: Visually impaired people gently glide their fingertips across the raised dots to read letters and words.
• Inventor: Invented by Louis Braille of France, who lost his eyesight as a child.
• Definition: Braille is a tactile writing system where characters are represented by combinations of raised dots on thick paper.
• How it is read: Visually impaired people gently glide their fingertips across the raised dots to read letters and words.
• Inventor: Invented by Louis Braille of France, who lost his eyesight as a child.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Raised dots system on thick paper
1.0 M
Reading through finger touch
1.0 M
Louis Braille named as inventor
1.0 M
Q6
How many dots make up a standard Braille cell? How are computers and audiobooks helping visually impaired people today?
The 6-Dot Braille Matrix
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Modern Technology for Inclusion:
• Standard Braille characters are formed using a cell of 6 raised dots arranged in two parallel vertical columns of three dots each.
• Today, screen-reading software (talkback), audiobooks, voice assistants, and refreshable Braille keyboards allow visually impaired individuals to operate computers, surf the internet, and study independently.
• Standard Braille characters are formed using a cell of 6 raised dots arranged in two parallel vertical columns of three dots each.
• Today, screen-reading software (talkback), audiobooks, voice assistants, and refreshable Braille keyboards allow visually impaired individuals to operate computers, surf the internet, and study independently.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
6-dot matrix described
1.5 M
Screen readers and audiobooks technology explained
1.5 M
Q7
When playing blindfold games in school, what challenges do you face, and what does this teach us?
Blindfold Game • Empathy in Action
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Empathy Experience:
• Without sight, walking feels scary and confusing; we fear bumping into walls or tripping over furniture. This teaches us deep empathy and respect for visually impaired people who navigate the world with courage.
• Without sight, walking feels scary and confusing; we fear bumping into walls or tripping over furniture. This teaches us deep empathy and respect for visually impaired people who navigate the world with courage.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Insightful reflection on vulnerability and empathy
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 13 ('Sharing Our Feelings'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Universal Design for Accessibility (Divyangjan Inclusivity)
Real-Life Context: A new public library is being designed. The architect plans a tall staircase at the entrance, printed books only, and narrow swing doors.
Analytical Task: Recommend three modifications based on 'Universal Accessibility' to make the library welcoming to visually and physically challenged visitors.
The library should incorporate universal accessibility features: (1) Braille and Tactile Paving: Lay textured yellow guiding tiles on floors so cane users can navigate independently, and add Braille nameplates and elevator buttons. (2) Audiobooks and Screen-Reader Computers: Provide digital talking books, audio workstations, and Braille display keyboards. (3) Ramps and Wide Automatic Doors: Replace steep entry stairs with non-slip ramps with dual handrails and install wide sliding doors for smooth wheelchair and cane access.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Tactile paving, Braille labeling, assistive digital technology (audiobooks/screen readers), universal access ramps (4 Marks).
14
Unit 2: Water & Food • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 14: The Story of Food
Plant and Animal Sources of Food; Gender Equality in Household Chores; Natural Home Remedies
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Gender roles in families: Examining shared household work (cooking, cleaning) vs unequal burdens.
- Plant parts as food: Roots (radish, carrot), stems (potato, ginger), leaves (spinach, cabbage), flowers (cauliflower, banana flower), and seeds (peas, wheat).
- Animal food sources: Milk from cows/goats, honey from honeybees, eggs from hens.
- Traditional medicinal home remedies: Turmeric milk for body pain/injuries, clove for toothache, ajwain for stomach ache.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Identify which part of the plant we eat for each of the following: Carrot, Potato, Spinach, Clove, Wheat, Cauliflower.
Botanical Plant Parts We Eat
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Carrot: Root
• Potato: Underground Stem (Tuber)
• Spinach: Leaf
• Clove (Laung): Dried Flower Bud
• Wheat: Seed
• Cauliflower: Flower / Inflorescence
• Potato: Underground Stem (Tuber)
• Spinach: Leaf
• Clove (Laung): Dried Flower Bud
• Wheat: Seed
• Cauliflower: Flower / Inflorescence
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct botanical identification for all six foods
3 Marks
Q2
What natural kitchen remedy is traditionally used when: (a) You have a toothache (b) You get a bruise or body ache (c) You have a stomach ache with gas?
Herbal Home Remedies
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• (a) Toothache: Pressing a whole clove (laung) or applying clove oil on the aching tooth.
• (b) Bruise / Body Ache: Drinking warm turmeric milk (haldi doodh) and applying a paste of turmeric and lime.
• (c) Stomach Ache with Gas: Chewing carom seeds (ajwain) with a pinch of black salt and warm water.
• (b) Bruise / Body Ache: Drinking warm turmeric milk (haldi doodh) and applying a paste of turmeric and lime.
• (c) Stomach Ache with Gas: Chewing carom seeds (ajwain) with a pinch of black salt and warm water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clove for toothache
1 Mark
Turmeric for wounds/aches
1 Mark
Ajwain with warm water for gastric ache
1 Mark
Q3
Contrast Venu's family and Rani's family in the chapter regarding sharing household chores.
Gender Equality at Home
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
In Venu's family, both parents share the housework (mother and father cook and clean together) and all family members eat together at the dining table. In contrast, in Rani's family, all domestic work falls entirely on the mother and daughter while the father and brother only sit and eat first, showing gender inequality.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Contrast of shared responsibilities vs gender stereotyping
2 Marks
Q4
Compare Venu's family with Rani's family from the chapter pictures:
(a) In Venu's family, who cleans the house, cooks food, and eats meals?
(b) In Rani's family, who does all the work, and who eats first?
(c) Which family model promotes gender equality? Family Roles & Equality • The Story of Food 3 Marks
(a) In Venu's family, who cleans the house, cooks food, and eats meals?
(b) In Rani's family, who does all the work, and who eats first?
(c) Which family model promotes gender equality? Family Roles & Equality • The Story of Food 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Family Gender Dynamics:
(a) Venu's Family:
• Mother and father share household work equally: father sweeps the floor while mother cooks, and all family members sit and eat food together happily.
(b) Rani's Family:
• Mother does all the cooking alone, Rani serves food to her father and brother while they eat first, and the women eat last.
(c) Gender Equality:
• Venu's family promotes true gender equality, mutual respect, and healthy collaboration.
(a) Venu's Family:
• Mother and father share household work equally: father sweeps the floor while mother cooks, and all family members sit and eat food together happily.
(b) Rani's Family:
• Mother does all the cooking alone, Rani serves food to her father and brother while they eat first, and the women eat last.
(c) Gender Equality:
• Venu's family promotes true gender equality, mutual respect, and healthy collaboration.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Shared work in Venu's family
1.0 M
Unequal burden in Rani's family
1.0 M
Venu's family chosen as egalitarian model
1.0 M
Q5
Classify the following edible plant parts into Roots, Stems, Leaves, Flowers, and Fruits:
Spinach, Carrot, Potato, Cauliflower, Mango, Ginger, Kachnar flowers, Radish. Plant Parts We Eat • Botanical Categories 4 Marks
Spinach, Carrot, Potato, Cauliflower, Mango, Ginger, Kachnar flowers, Radish. Plant Parts We Eat • Botanical Categories 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Edible Plant Parts:
• Roots: Carrot, Radish.
• Underground Stems: Potato, Ginger.
• Leaves: Spinach.
• Flowers: Cauliflower, Kachnar flowers.
• Fruits: Mango.
• Roots: Carrot, Radish.
• Underground Stems: Potato, Ginger.
• Leaves: Spinach.
• Flowers: Cauliflower, Kachnar flowers.
• Fruits: Mango.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All edible plant parts correctly classified into 5 categories
4.0 M
Q6
What home remedy from kitchen plants do elders give when:
(a) You have a toothache?
(b) You have a cough and sore throat?
(c) You have a stomach ache / gas? Kitchen Medicinal Remedies • Natural Cures 3 Marks
(a) You have a toothache?
(b) You have a cough and sore throat?
(c) You have a stomach ache / gas? Kitchen Medicinal Remedies • Natural Cures 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Home Remedies:
• (a) Toothache: Pressing a piece of clove (laung) or clove oil against the aching tooth.
• (b) Cough & Throat: Warm water with ginger juice, honey, and tulsi, or warm turmeric milk.
• (c) Stomach ache / Gas: Chewing ajwain (carom seeds) with warm water and a pinch of black salt.
• (a) Toothache: Pressing a piece of clove (laung) or clove oil against the aching tooth.
• (b) Cough & Throat: Warm water with ginger juice, honey, and tulsi, or warm turmeric milk.
• (c) Stomach ache / Gas: Chewing ajwain (carom seeds) with warm water and a pinch of black salt.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Clove for toothache
1.0 M
Ginger/honey/tulsi for cough
1.0 M
Ajwain for stomach ache
1.0 M
Q7
Name two food items that are dried in the hot sun to preserve them for the entire year.
Food Preservation • Sunlight Drying
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Sun-Dried Foods:
1. Papad and potato chips / vadiyan.
2. Red chilies and raw mango slices (amchur).
1. Papad and potato chips / vadiyan.
2. Red chilies and raw mango slices (amchur).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two authentic sun-dried foods named
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 14 ('The Story of Food'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Promoting Gender Equality: Challenging Domestic Stereotypes
Real-Life Context: In a class discussion, a boy says, 'Cooking, washing dishes, and sweeping are women's duties; men are only meant to earn money outside.'
Analytical Task: How does 'The Story of Food' challenge this stereotype, and why must all children learn life skills equally?
The chapter illustrates that domestic work is not gender-bound; basic living tasks like cooking, cleaning, and laundry are essential survival life skills that every human being—boy or girl—must master to live independently. When chores are shared equally among all family members, mothers do not suffer burnout, homes run happily, and children grow up respecting equal partnership and mutual dignity.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Deconstructing gender stereotypes, home management as essential survival life skills, promoting mutual equality (4 Marks).
15
Unit 6: Craft, Shelter & Environment • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 15: Making Pots
The Crow (Phudgudi) and Sparrow (Bhanate) Folk Story: Clay, Kiln, Tools, and Prehistoric Pottery
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The charming folk story of Bhanate the sparrow and Phudgudi the crow seeking water to wash its beak.
- The chain of helpers in pottery: River → Clay pit → Potter → Blacksmith (for trowel) → Kiln.
- The invention of early pottery: Early humans discovered that cooking clay over open flames made waterproof vessels to store food and water.
- Making miniature pinch pots, coil pots, and clay cups using moist soil.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Narrate the chain of things the crow (Phudgudi) had to visit in order to get a pot made.
Story Progression
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. The crow went to the river for water to wash its beak.
2. The river asked for a pot.
3. The crow went to the potter, who asked for clay.
4. The crow went to the clay pit, which asked for a trowel (khurpi) to dig the soil.
5. The crow went to the blacksmith, who forged the trowel.
2. The river asked for a pot.
3. The crow went to the potter, who asked for clay.
4. The crow went to the clay pit, which asked for a trowel (khurpi) to dig the soil.
5. The crow went to the blacksmith, who forged the trowel.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Complete sequential chain (river, potter, clay pit, blacksmith)
3 Marks
Q2
Why do raw clay pots need to be baked in a hot kiln (bhatti) before they can hold water?
Pottery Science
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Raw sun-dried clay contains loose water molecules that dissolve immediately back into mud when filled with liquids. Firing pots in a kiln at high temperatures chemically fuses the silica and clay particles into a vitrified, hard ceramic that retains its shape and holds liquids without dissolving.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Why raw clay melts in water
1.5 Marks
High-temperature baking creates durable, hardened ceramic
1.5 Marks
Q3
How did early prehistoric humans store grains and water before the potter's wheel was invented?
Human History
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Early humans wove dried grass baskets and smeared them with sticky river clay, and shaped hollow bowls out of clay lumps with their hands (pinch pots) before sun-drying them.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Grass baskets lined with clay and pinch pots
2 Marks
Q4
In the story of Bhanate the crow and Phgudi the sparrow:
List the helpers Bhanate visited in sequence to wash his beak before eating Phgudi's eggs:
River $\rightarrow$ Potter $\rightarrow$ Clay-pit $\rightarrow$ Blacksmith. Story Sequence • Phgudi and Bhanate 4 Marks
List the helpers Bhanate visited in sequence to wash his beak before eating Phgudi's eggs:
River $\rightarrow$ Potter $\rightarrow$ Clay-pit $\rightarrow$ Blacksmith. Story Sequence • Phgudi and Bhanate 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Story Journey:
1. River: Told the crow to bring a pot to fetch clean water.
2. Potter: Told the crow to bring clay to make a pot.
3. Clay-pit: Told the crow to bring a trowel (khurpi) to dig clay.
4. Blacksmith: Gave the crow a sharp trowel.
• In the meantime, Phgudi's eggs hatched, the little chicks flew away, and the greedy crow went hungry.
1. River: Told the crow to bring a pot to fetch clean water.
2. Potter: Told the crow to bring clay to make a pot.
3. Clay-pit: Told the crow to bring a trowel (khurpi) to dig clay.
4. Blacksmith: Gave the crow a sharp trowel.
• In the meantime, Phgudi's eggs hatched, the little chicks flew away, and the greedy crow went hungry.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 helpers in exact sequence (River, Potter, Clay-pit, Blacksmith)
4.0 M
Q5
(a) What happens if you pour water into an earthen pot dried only in the sun?
(b) Why do potters bake clay pots in a red-hot kiln (bhatti)? Pottery Science • Sun Drying vs Kiln Baking 3 Marks
(b) Why do potters bake clay pots in a red-hot kiln (bhatti)? Pottery Science • Sun Drying vs Kiln Baking 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Pottery Chemistry:
(a) Sun-Dried Pot:
• If water is poured into a raw, sun-dried clay pot, the clay absorbs moisture, turns back into soft mud, and collapses.
(b) Kiln Baking:
• High baking heat in a kiln melts silica in clay, turning it into permanent ceramic stone that is waterproof, sturdy, and durable.
(a) Sun-Dried Pot:
• If water is poured into a raw, sun-dried clay pot, the clay absorbs moisture, turns back into soft mud, and collapses.
(b) Kiln Baking:
• High baking heat in a kiln melts silica in clay, turning it into permanent ceramic stone that is waterproof, sturdy, and durable.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Sun-dried pot dissolving in water explained
1.5 M
Kiln heat permanently transforming clay into sturdy ceramic
1.5 M
Q6
Before inventing pottery, in what natural containers did early humans store food and water?
History of Utensils • Early Humans
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Prehistoric Containers:
• Early humans used dried hollow gourds (tumba), animal skins, carved stone bowls, and woven reed baskets lined with clay.
• Early humans used dried hollow gourds (tumba), animal skins, carved stone bowls, and woven reed baskets lined with clay.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Gourds, animal skins, and carved stone containers named
2.0 M
Q7
What is a Potter's Wheel, and how does the potter spin it?
Potter's Wheel • Rotational Physics
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Potter's Wheel:
• It is a heavy circular stone or wooden turntable. The potter spins it rapidly using a wooden stick, and while it spins steadily on its pivot, he shapes wet clay balls with his thumbs and palms into symmetrical round vessels.
• It is a heavy circular stone or wooden turntable. The potter spins it rapidly using a wooden stick, and while it spins steadily on its pivot, he shapes wet clay balls with his thumbs and palms into symmetrical round vessels.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Turntable mechanism and shaping using hands described
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 15 ('Making Pots'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Eco-Friendly Material Culture: Terracotta Cookware Revival
Real-Life Context: With modern awareness about microplastics and toxic non-stick chemical coatings, many urban households are switching back to traditional unglazed clay handis and terracotta water bottles.
Analytical Task: What are the ecological and health advantages of replacing plastic water bottles with natural clay bottles?
Clay bottles offer distinct advantages: (1) Natural Evaporative Cooling: Tiny microscopic pores in the clay allow microscopic water seepage that evaporates continuously, cooling the water naturally by 4-5 degrees Celsius without electricity or refrigerators. (2) Zero Chemical Leaching: Unlike plastic bottles that release toxic bisphenol-A (BPA) and microplastics under hot sunlight, natural clay is 100% non-toxic. (3) Soil-Friendly Disposal: When discarded, terracotta breaks down harmlessly back into fertile natural soil.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Evaporative cooling, zero microplastic toxicity, natural soil biodegradability (4 Marks).
16
Unit 5: Travel, Work & Community • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 16: Games We Play
Traditional Street Games (Hopscotch/Stappoo, Gilli-Danda, Kabbadi), Sportsmanship, and Olympic Champions
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Traditional Indian outdoor games: Stappoo (Hopscotch), Gilli-Danda, Kho-Kho, Kabbadi, Peetthu (Seven Stones).
- Indoor games: Chess, Ludo, Carrom, Playing Cards, and Snakes & Ladders.
- The value of sports: Physical fitness, cardiovascular stamina, teamwork, and fair play.
- Overcoming gender barriers in professional sports (Sania Mirza, Mary Kom, P.V. Sindhu).
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
How is the traditional game of 'Stappoo' (Hopscotch) played? What is a 'thippi'?
Traditional Games
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
In Stappoo, a rectangular numbered grid of blocks (1 to 8) is drawn on the ground with chalk. The player throws a flat stone marker called a thippi into square 1, hops through all the squares on one foot without stepping on lines or on the square with the thippi, turns around at the top, and picks up the thippi on the return trip.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Description of the grid and hopping rules
1.5 Marks
Definition and role of the 'thippi' marker
1.5 Marks
Q2
Classify these games into Outdoor and Indoor: Cricket, Chess, Kabbadi, Carrom, Kho-Kho, Ludo.
Indoor vs Outdoor Games
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Outdoor Games: Cricket, Kabbadi, Kho-Kho.
• Indoor Games: Chess, Carrom, Ludo.
• Indoor Games: Chess, Carrom, Ludo.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate classification of all 6 sports
3 Marks
Q3
What does it mean to show 'sportsmanship' when you lose a game?
Sportsmanship
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Sportsmanship means gracefully congratulating the winning team with a handshake, accepting defeat without throwing tantrums, learning from our mistakes, and valuing fun and friendship above winning.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Graceful acceptance of defeat and congratulating opponents
2 Marks
Q4
Explain the rules of Hop-Scotch (Stappoo / Kith-Kith):
(a) What marker is thrown into the numbered boxes?
(b) How does a player hop through the boxes 1 to 8? Traditional Games • Hop-Scotch (Stappoo) 3 Marks
(a) What marker is thrown into the numbered boxes?
(b) How does a player hop through the boxes 1 to 8? Traditional Games • Hop-Scotch (Stappoo) 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stappoo Rules:
(a) Marker:
• A flat stone or tile called a Thippi is thrown into the boxes in numerical order.
(b) Hopping Method:
• In single boxes (1, 2, 3, 6), the player hops on one foot without stepping on lines.
• In paired side-by-side boxes (4-5 and 7-8), the player lands with both feet open (one foot in each box).
• The player turns around at box 8, hops back, picks up the thippi while balancing on one foot, and hops out safely.
(a) Marker:
• A flat stone or tile called a Thippi is thrown into the boxes in numerical order.
(b) Hopping Method:
• In single boxes (1, 2, 3, 6), the player hops on one foot without stepping on lines.
• In paired side-by-side boxes (4-5 and 7-8), the player lands with both feet open (one foot in each box).
• The player turns around at box 8, hops back, picks up the thippi while balancing on one foot, and hops out safely.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Thippi marker identified
1.0 M
Single-foot and double-feet hopping rules clearly described
2.0 M
Q5
Classify the following into 'Indoor Games' and 'Outdoor Games':
Cricket, Ludo, Football, Carrom, Chess, Kho-Kho. Games Classification • Indoor vs Outdoor 3 Marks
Cricket, Ludo, Football, Carrom, Chess, Kho-Kho. Games Classification • Indoor vs Outdoor 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Games Classification:
• Indoor Games: Ludo, Carrom, Chess.
• Outdoor Games: Cricket, Football, Kho-Kho.
• Indoor Games: Ludo, Carrom, Chess.
• Outdoor Games: Cricket, Football, Kho-Kho.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three correct indoor games
1.5 M
Three correct outdoor games
1.5 M
Q6
Match each Indian sports champion with their respective sport:
• Sania Mirza: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess]
• Sachin Tendulkar: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess]
• P. V. Sindhu: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess]
• Viswanathan Anand: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess] Sports Champions • National Pride 4 Marks
• Sania Mirza: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess]
• Sachin Tendulkar: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess]
• P. V. Sindhu: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess]
• Viswanathan Anand: [Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Chess] Sports Champions • National Pride 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Indian Sports Champions:
• Sania Mirza: Tennis
• Sachin Tendulkar: Cricket
• P. V. Sindhu: Badminton
• Viswanathan Anand: Chess
• Sania Mirza: Tennis
• Sachin Tendulkar: Cricket
• P. V. Sindhu: Badminton
• Viswanathan Anand: Chess
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 sports champions correctly matched
4.0 M
Q7
What games did your grandparents play when they were children that are rarely seen today?
Pastimes of Grandparents • Evolution of Play
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Traditional Pastimes:
• Grandparents played Gilli-Danda, Satoliya (Pitthoo with 7 stones), Posham Pa, spinning wooden tops (Lattu), and flying kites on rooftops.
• Grandparents played Gilli-Danda, Satoliya (Pitthoo with 7 stones), Posham Pa, spinning wooden tops (Lattu), and flying kites on rooftops.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two or more authentic traditional games named
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 16 ('Games We Play'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Physical Activity vs Digital Screen Sedentariness
Real-Life Context: A pediatric fitness survey reveals that 70% of urban children spend their evenings sitting on sofas playing mobile video games instead of playing outdoor sports like Kho-Kho or cycling in the park.
Analytical Task: Explain the physical and social health hazards of replacing outdoor playground games with video games.
Outdoor street games like Kabbadi, tag, and hopscotch develop cardiovascular stamina, muscle agility, bone density, and eye-hand coordination, while burning excess calories to prevent childhood obesity. Socially, playground games teach vital negotiation skills, team leadership, empathy, and resilience when facing defeat. In contrast, sedentary video gaming causes eye strain, sleep disorders, neck strain, and social isolation.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Cardiovascular/motor fitness, social skills learned through playground rules vs screen sedentariness (4 Marks).
17
Unit 4: Communication & Expression • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 17: Here Comes a Letter
The Journey of a Letter from Sender to Receiver: Postbox, Sorting Office, PIN Code, and Postal Evolution
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The stages of a postal letter: Writing address and PIN code, pasting stamp, dropping into postbox, clearing, sorting at post office, transport by train/van, and doorstep delivery by postman.
- The role of the PIN code (Postal Index Number): A 6-digit code locating the exact state, sub-region, and sorting post office.
- Postal stationery: Postcards, inland letters, stamped envelopes, money orders, and speed post.
- Modern digital communication vs letters: Telephone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, and email.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Trace the step-by-step journey of a letter after you drop it into a red postbox.
Postal Journey
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. The postman unlocks the red postbox, collects all letters in a canvas bag, and takes them to the Head Post Office.
2. Letters are stamped with the post office seal date and sorted according to destination PIN codes.
3. Bundled letters are loaded onto mail vans, trains, or aeroplanes to reach the destination city.
4. At the destination delivery post office, the local beat postman sorts the letters street by street and delivers them into recipients' letterboxes.
2. Letters are stamped with the post office seal date and sorted according to destination PIN codes.
3. Bundled letters are loaded onto mail vans, trains, or aeroplanes to reach the destination city.
4. At the destination delivery post office, the local beat postman sorts the letters street by street and delivers them into recipients' letterboxes.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Sequential progression from postbox to clearing, sorting, transit, and delivery
3 Marks
Q2
What is a PIN code, and why is it essential to write it clearly on every envelope?
Postal Index Number (PIN)
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
A PIN code (Postal Index Number) is a 6-digit numerical code used by India Post. Each digit represents a specific geographic zone, sub-region, sorting district, and delivery post office. Writing the PIN code ensures that automated machines and sorters can route the letter quickly without errors caused by confusing handwriting or duplicate village names.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of 6-digit PIN code
1.5 Marks
Function in speeding up error-free sorting and delivery
1.5 Marks
Q3
How did people send urgent messages before the invention of telephones and internet emails?
Postal Evolution
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
People sent urgent messages through the Telegram (which transmitted short coded electrical signals over wires in hours) or through carrier pigeons and horseback royal couriers (harkaras) in ancient times.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Mention of Telegram and historical couriers/pigeons
2 Marks
Q4
Trace the 5-step journey of Reena's letter from her desk to her friend Ahmed in Delhi:
(a) Letter Box $\rightarrow$ (b) Post Office $\rightarrow$ (c) Railway Van $\rightarrow$ (d) Delhi Post Office $\rightarrow$ (e) Doorstep Delivery. Journey of a Letter • Postal Steps 5 Marks
(a) Letter Box $\rightarrow$ (b) Post Office $\rightarrow$ (c) Railway Van $\rightarrow$ (d) Delhi Post Office $\rightarrow$ (e) Doorstep Delivery. Journey of a Letter • Postal Steps 5 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Journey of a Letter:
1. Reena writes the letter, pastes a postal stamp, writes Ahmed's complete address with PIN code, and drops it into the red Letter Box.
2. The postman opens the letter box with a key, collects all letters in a canvas bag, and takes them to the local Head Post Office.
3. In the post office, clerks stamp the date and sort letters by destination city, loading Delhi sacks onto the mail van of a Train.
4. At Delhi Railway Station, the mail van delivers the bags to the Delhi Post Office, where letters are sorted by locality.
5. The local area postman carries the letter in his bag and delivers it straight into Ahmed's hands at his home.
1. Reena writes the letter, pastes a postal stamp, writes Ahmed's complete address with PIN code, and drops it into the red Letter Box.
2. The postman opens the letter box with a key, collects all letters in a canvas bag, and takes them to the local Head Post Office.
3. In the post office, clerks stamp the date and sort letters by destination city, loading Delhi sacks onto the mail van of a Train.
4. At Delhi Railway Station, the mail van delivers the bags to the Delhi Post Office, where letters are sorted by locality.
5. The local area postman carries the letter in his bag and delivers it straight into Ahmed's hands at his home.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 chronological stages accurately detailed
5.0 M
Q5
Name three different postal items you can buy at a post office counter for sending messages.
Postal Stationery • Cost and Types
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Postal Items:
1. Postcard (cheapest, open card for short messages)
2. Inland Letter Card (blue folded confidential letter)
3. Stamped Envelope (sealed cover for sending private letters and documents).
1. Postcard (cheapest, open card for short messages)
2. Inland Letter Card (blue folded confidential letter)
3. Stamped Envelope (sealed cover for sending private letters and documents).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Postcard, Inland letter, and Envelope described
3.0 M
Q6
How has communication changed from old handwritten letters to modern smartphones?
Modern Communication • Letters vs Smartphones
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Evolution of Communication:
• Old handwritten letters took 4 to 7 days to travel across the country by road and rail.
• Today, smartphones allow instantaneous communication via video calls, WhatsApp text messages, and emails that reach anywhere on Earth within a single second.
• Old handwritten letters took 4 to 7 days to travel across the country by road and rail.
• Today, smartphones allow instantaneous communication via video calls, WhatsApp text messages, and emails that reach anywhere on Earth within a single second.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Speed and modality contrast between postal letters and digital phones
2.0 M
Q7
Why is a postal stamp pasted on an envelope? What happens if you forget to paste one?
Postal Stamps • Philately
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Postal Stamp Role:
• A postage stamp proves that the sender has paid the fee for postal transportation.
• If you post an envelope without a stamp, the postal service marks it 'Bearing', and the receiver has to pay double the postage charge before receiving the letter.
• A postage stamp proves that the sender has paid the fee for postal transportation.
• If you post an envelope without a stamp, the postal service marks it 'Bearing', and the receiver has to pay double the postage charge before receiving the letter.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Proof of postage fee payment explained
1.0 M
'Bearing' penalty charge on receiver noted
1.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 17 ('Here Comes a Letter'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Digital Communication vs Emotional Value of Handwritten Letters
Real-Life Context: While instant messaging apps deliver text messages in seconds, Reema's grandmother keeps a bundle of old handwritten inland letters sent by her father fifty years ago in her wooden chest.
Analytical Task: Why do handwritten letters carry emotional and historical value that digital instant messages often lack?
Handwritten letters are tangible personal artifacts. The sender's physical handwriting, ink strokes, deliberate pauses, choice of stamps, and paper texture preserve the author's warmth and personality. Writing a physical letter requires dedicated time, thoughtful contemplation, and patience. Unlike fleeting digital notifications that are easily deleted, handwritten letters can be cherished as precious family heirlooms for generations.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Tangibility of handwriting, emotional investment, contemplation vs ephemeral digital texts (4 Marks).
18
Unit 6: Craft, Shelter & Environment • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 18: A House Like This!
Architectural Adaptation to Climate and Terrain: Stilt Houses, Igloos, Houseboats, Multi-storey Flats
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Stilt houses in Assam: Built 10 to 12 feet above ground on sturdy bamboo pillars to stay safe during frequent floods.
- Sloping wooden roofs in Manali (Himachal Pradesh): Allowing heavy winter snow and rain to slide off quickly.
- Thick mud houses with thorny bush roofs in Rajasthan: Keeping interiors cool against intense desert heat.
- Houseboats and Shikaras in Srinagar (Kashmir): Floating homes on Dal Lake with carved wooden Khatamband ceilings.
- Multi-storey concrete apartments in crowded megacities like Mumbai to accommodate many families in limited land.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Why are houses in Assam built on bamboo stilts 10 to 12 feet above the ground?
Climatic Adaptations
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Assam receives torrential monsoon rains that cause frequent flash floods. Building houses on high bamboo stilts ensures that rising floodwaters and wild reptiles cannot enter living quarters. Furthermore, bamboo is flexible and withstands frequent earthquake tremors.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Flood and waterlogging protection
1.5 Marks
Protection from animals and earthquake flexibility
1.5 Marks
Q2
How do the thick mud walls and thorny bush roofs of houses in Rajasthan keep people comfortable?
Desert Architecture
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Thick mud walls act as thermal barriers; they absorb desert solar heat during the scorching day without transferring it inside, keeping rooms cool. At night, when desert temperatures drop sharply, the stored warmth radiates back inside. Thorny brushwood roofs provide lightweight thatched insulation.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Thermal insulation of thick mud during hot days
1.5 Marks
Nighttime heat radiation and thatched roof purpose
1.5 Marks
Q3
What is an 'Igloo' and what is a 'Houseboat'?
Specialized Dwellings
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
• Igloo: A dome-shaped shelter constructed from tightly packed blocks of snow in freezing polar Arctic regions.
• Houseboat: A floating wooden residential boat found on scenic lakes and backwaters (like Dal Lake in Kashmir and Alleppey in Kerala).
• Houseboat: A floating wooden residential boat found on scenic lakes and backwaters (like Dal Lake in Kashmir and Alleppey in Kerala).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate definitions of both unique dwelling types
2 Marks
Q4
Match each type of house with the Indian region and the climate reason:
• Stilt House (Bamboo poles): [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay]
• Sloping Roof House: [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay]
• Mud House with Thatch Roof: [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay]
• Houseboat (Shikara): [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay] Climate-Adapted Housing • Regional Architecture 4 Marks
• Stilt House (Bamboo poles): [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay]
• Sloping Roof House: [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay]
• Mud House with Thatch Roof: [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay]
• Houseboat (Shikara): [Assam - Heavy rainfall and floods, Manali/Himachal - Heavy snowfall and rain, Rajasthan/Desert - Scorching heat, Srinagar/Dal Lake - Floating tourist stay] Climate-Adapted Housing • Regional Architecture 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Climate-Adapted Housing:
• Stilt House: Built 10–12 feet high on strong bamboo poles in Assam to keep living rooms dry during severe floods.
• Sloping Roof House: Slanted roofs in Manali allow heavy snow and rainwater to slide right off without leaking.
• Mud House: Thick mud walls and thorny bush roofs in Rajasthan insulate interiors, keeping rooms cool in blistering desert heat.
• Houseboat: Wooden floating house in Srinagar (Dal Lake) built for living and welcoming tourists on water.
• Stilt House: Built 10–12 feet high on strong bamboo poles in Assam to keep living rooms dry during severe floods.
• Sloping Roof House: Slanted roofs in Manali allow heavy snow and rainwater to slide right off without leaking.
• Mud House: Thick mud walls and thorny bush roofs in Rajasthan insulate interiors, keeping rooms cool in blistering desert heat.
• Houseboat: Wooden floating house in Srinagar (Dal Lake) built for living and welcoming tourists on water.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 houses accurately matched with regions and climate reasons
4.0 M
Q5
Contrast the building materials used in a high-rise city apartment (Pucca House) with a village hut (Kutcha House).
Building Materials • Multi-Story Flats vs Kutcha House
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Building Materials Comparison:
• High-Rise Pucca House: Cement, iron steel rods, baked red bricks, gravel, marble tiles, and glass windows.
• Village Kutcha House: Unbaked sun-dried mud, bamboo poles, straw, thatch, dry palm leaves, and cow-dung plaster.
• High-Rise Pucca House: Cement, iron steel rods, baked red bricks, gravel, marble tiles, and glass windows.
• Village Kutcha House: Unbaked sun-dried mud, bamboo poles, straw, thatch, dry palm leaves, and cow-dung plaster.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Pucca house permanent materials listed
1.5 M
Kutcha house organic materials listed
1.5 M
Q6
What is an Igloo, who builds it, and why doesn't it feel freezing inside?
Igloo Architecture • Polar Survival
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Igloo Physics:
• An igloo is a dome-shaped winter shelter built by Inuits (Eskimos) using hard-packed snow blocks.
• Packed snow is a great insulator containing millions of trapped air pockets. Body heat and a small seal-oil lamp warm the interior, and the heat cannot escape through the snow walls.
• An igloo is a dome-shaped winter shelter built by Inuits (Eskimos) using hard-packed snow blocks.
• Packed snow is a great insulator containing millions of trapped air pockets. Body heat and a small seal-oil lamp warm the interior, and the heat cannot escape through the snow walls.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Dome snow block construction explained
1.5 M
Thermal insulation of trapped air pockets in snow
1.5 M
Q7
Why do large crowded cities like Mumbai and Delhi have multi-story skyscraper buildings instead of single houses?
Multi-Story Apartments • Urban Land Shortage
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Urban Density:
• Large cities have millions of people but very limited land area. Building upwards into multi-story flats allows hundreds of families to live safely on a single small plot of land.
• Large cities have millions of people but very limited land area. Building upwards into multi-story flats allows hundreds of families to live safely on a single small plot of land.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
High population and limited land area rationale
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 18 ('A House Like This!'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Vernacular Architecture and Modern Climate Resilience
Real-Life Context: Modern builders in flood-prone wetlands are replacing traditional bamboo stilt houses with heavy ground-level concrete brick homes, resulting in catastrophic waterlogging every monsoon.
Analytical Task: Why is indigenous vernacular architecture scientifically superior to copy-pasting city concrete designs in ecologically sensitive areas?
Indigenous architecture represents centuries of empirical adaptation to local geology, climate, and hazards. Stilt houses let floodwaters flow underneath unimpeded without structural resistance. Mud and thatch naturally regulate temperature without air conditioning. In contrast, heavy ground-level concrete blocks natural drainage pathways, traps indoor heat, and cracks during earthquakes. True modern engineering blends indigenous wisdom with durable materials rather than blindly imposing unsuitable concrete blocks.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Ecological wisdom of vernacular architecture, natural drainage vs concrete barriers, thermal efficiency (4 Marks).
19
Unit 1: Animals & Habitats • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 19: Our Friends — Animals
Empathy, Care, First-Aid for Wounded Animals, and Domestic Mutual Relationships
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The bird that flew into the classroom ceiling fan: First-aid with water and gentle handling.
- Malini and her kitten: Caring for domestic pets when they are in distress or hungry.
- The story of the thirsty donkey: Helping beasts of burden carrying heavy laundry.
- Interdependence: Cow (milk), honeybee (honey), dog (guarding), horse (travel), sheep (wool).
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What did Navjot and Ali do when a bird was hit by the rotating classroom ceiling fan?
Animal First-Aid
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
They immediately switched off the electric ceiling fan to prevent further injury, gently picked up the trembling bird, stroked its feathers with love, offered it cool water in a bowl to drink, and watched with joy when it recovered strength and fluttered safely out through the window.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Immediate safety action (switching off fan)
1 Mark
Gentle physical care and offering water
2 Marks
Q2
Why should owners never overload or beat beasts of burden (bullocks, horses, donkeys)?
Care for Working Animals
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Working animals feel severe muscle exhaustion, thirst, pain, and spine damage when overloaded or whipped. They are living sentient creatures that faithfully assist human livelihoods and deserve nutritious fodder, fresh water, adequate rest, and humane treatment.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Physiological harm of overloading and beating
1.5 Marks
Ethical duty to provide rest, fodder, and medical care
1.5 Marks
Q3
Give two examples of how animals provide food and services to humans without being harmed.
Mutual Benefits
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Honeybees: Produce sweet nutritious honey and wax while pollinating our orchard flowers.
2. Sheep: Provide warm fleece wool that is painlessly sheared in summer to make winter clothes.
2. Sheep: Provide warm fleece wool that is painlessly sheared in summer to make winter clothes.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two accurate examples of cruelty-free human-animal partnerships
2 Marks
Q4
In 'Our Friends — Animals':
(a) In Navodaya school, a bird hit the ceiling fan. What did Navjyot and Ali immediately do to save the bird?
(b) Why should we hang an earthen bowl of water in our balcony during summers? Animal Welfare • Care for Strays and Birds 3 Marks
(a) In Navodaya school, a bird hit the ceiling fan. What did Navjyot and Ali immediately do to save the bird?
(b) Why should we hang an earthen bowl of water in our balcony during summers? Animal Welfare • Care for Strays and Birds 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Kindness to Animals:
(a) Bird Rescue:
• Navjyot and Ali immediately switched off the ceiling fan, picked up the shivering bird gently, brought water in a bowl, and dropped water on its beak until it flapped its wings and flew safely out the window.
(b) Water Bowl in Summer:
• Ponds and puddles dry up in summer. Small sparrows and pigeons suffer from dehydration; providing fresh water saves hundreds of urban birds from dying of thirst.
(a) Bird Rescue:
• Navjyot and Ali immediately switched off the ceiling fan, picked up the shivering bird gently, brought water in a bowl, and dropped water on its beak until it flapped its wings and flew safely out the window.
(b) Water Bowl in Summer:
• Ponds and puddles dry up in summer. Small sparrows and pigeons suffer from dehydration; providing fresh water saves hundreds of urban birds from dying of thirst.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Switching off fan and watering bird described
1.5 M
Saving birds from summer dehydration explained
1.5 M
Q5
Match each domestic animal with what it gives humans and how we should care for it:
• Cow: [Milk and dung manure -> Clean shed, fresh fodder, and clean water]
• Sheep: [Warm wool -> Safe pen, grazing grass, and regular shearing]
• Honeybee: [Sweet honey and wax -> Clean hives and blossoming flower gardens] Domestic Animals • Care and Products 3 Marks
• Cow: [Milk and dung manure -> Clean shed, fresh fodder, and clean water]
• Sheep: [Warm wool -> Safe pen, grazing grass, and regular shearing]
• Honeybee: [Sweet honey and wax -> Clean hives and blossoming flower gardens] Domestic Animals • Care and Products 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Domestic Animals:
• Cow: Provides nutritious milk and dung manure. We must give it clean shelter, dry bedding, green fodder, and regular veterinary vaccinations.
• Sheep: Provides warm wool for sweaters. We must protect it from wolves, provide grazing pastures, and shelter in winter.
• Honeybee: Pollinates crops and yields honey and wax. We must protect flower gardens from harmful chemical pesticides.
• Cow: Provides nutritious milk and dung manure. We must give it clean shelter, dry bedding, green fodder, and regular veterinary vaccinations.
• Sheep: Provides warm wool for sweaters. We must protect it from wolves, provide grazing pastures, and shelter in winter.
• Honeybee: Pollinates crops and yields honey and wax. We must protect flower gardens from harmful chemical pesticides.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 3 domestic animals matched with products and responsible care
3.0 M
Q6
What should you do if you see a puppy or kitten injured by a passing vehicle on the road?
Stray Animal First Aid • Animal Helpline
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
First-Aid Action:
1. Carefully move the injured animal to the side of the road away from traffic.
2. With an adult's help, call a local animal rescue helpline (like SPCA or Blue Cross) or take it to a nearby veterinary clinic for antiseptic dressing.
1. Carefully move the injured animal to the side of the road away from traffic.
2. With an adult's help, call a local animal rescue helpline (like SPCA or Blue Cross) or take it to a nearby veterinary clinic for antiseptic dressing.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Safe moving and calling animal rescue/vet described
2.0 M
Q7
In the story 'The Queen's Garden', why did the fruit harvest drop drastically when the gardener killed all the birds?
Food Chain • Bees in Queen's Garden
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Biological Balance:
• The gardener thought birds only ate fruit. But birds also eat caterpillars and harmful insects. When all birds were driven away, millions of insects destroyed all the fruit blossoms, leaving almost no fruit harvest.
• The gardener thought birds only ate fruit. But birds also eat caterpillars and harmful insects. When all birds were driven away, millions of insects destroyed all the fruit blossoms, leaving almost no fruit harvest.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds controlling crop-eating insects explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 19 ('Our Friends — Animals'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Ethical Treatment of Animals: The Kite String (Manja) Hazard
Real-Life Context: During kite-flying festivals, thousands of birds suffer severed wings, deep throat lacerations, and death due to sharp glass-coated synthetic nylon thread (Chinese manja) hanging from trees and telephone wires.
Analytical Task: As an animal friend, how can you celebrate kite festivals without causing harm to birds?
We can celebrate safely and compassionately: (1) Boycott Glass-Coated Manja: Use only traditional plain cotton thread (saddi) that breaks under mild tension and does not slice bird wings. (2) Avoid Flying at Dawn and Dusk: Refrain from flying kites during early morning and evening hours when flocks of birds fly between their nesting trees and feeding grounds. (3) Clean Hanging Threads: Safely take down dangling leftover kite strings from neighborhood trees so birds do not get entangled.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Rejection of glass manja, timing kite flying to avoid bird transit, cleaning entangled strings (4 Marks).
20
Unit 2: Water & Food • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 20: Drop by Drop
Madho's Village in Rajasthan (Bajju): Arid Deserts, Water Tankas, and Water Recycling
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Severe water scarcity in Bajju (Rajasthan): Women and children walking miles on hot sand dunes with pots on their heads to fetch water.
- The Water Train: A government relief train carrying drinking water tanks during peak summer crises.
- The Tanka System: An underground circular pit built in courtyards with sloping plastered floors and wire mesh filters to harvest every drop of rain.
- Water recycling hierarchy: Water used for washing vegetables is reused for washing utensils, which is then used to bathe cattle or water trees.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What is a 'Tanka' and how is rainwater collected inside it in Rajasthan?
Traditional Tanka System
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
A Tanka is a covered circular underground pit constructed inside a house's courtyard.
• The courtyard floor is made sloping so all falling rainwater flows toward a drainage hole.
• A wire mesh filter is fitted at the inlet mouth to prevent leaves and dirt from entering.
• The water flows down a covered pipe into the sealed underground chamber, where it stays cool, pure, and clean for drinking throughout the dry year.
• The courtyard floor is made sloping so all falling rainwater flows toward a drainage hole.
• A wire mesh filter is fitted at the inlet mouth to prevent leaves and dirt from entering.
• The water flows down a covered pipe into the sealed underground chamber, where it stays cool, pure, and clean for drinking throughout the dry year.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Structure of an underground courtyard Tanka
1.5 Marks
Sloping floor and filtration mechanism
1.5 Marks
Q2
How do people in water-scarce desert villages reuse the same water multiple times?
Water Recycling Hierarchy
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
They practice multi-stage water recycling:
1. Stage 1: Clean water is used for washing faces and hands.
2. Stage 2: The collected runoff water is reused for scrubbing kitchen utensils or washing clothes.
3. Stage 3: The final rinse water is poured onto plant roots or used to bathe cattle.
1. Stage 1: Clean water is used for washing faces and hands.
2. Stage 2: The collected runoff water is reused for scrubbing kitchen utensils or washing clothes.
3. Stage 3: The final rinse water is poured onto plant roots or used to bathe cattle.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Detailed 3-stage progression of domestic water reuse
3 Marks
Q3
Why is wasting tap water in cities considered insensitive to people living in desert regions?
Empathy for Scarcity
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
In desert regions like Bajju, little children and mothers walk barefoot over burning sand for hours just to fetch one pot of drinking water. Carelessly leaving taps running in cities shows thoughtlessness toward a finite, precious natural resource that millions struggle daily to secure.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Contrast between urban water wastage and rural struggle
2 Marks
Q4
In 'Drop by Drop', describe how Madho's family in Rajasthan manages their scarce drinking water:
(a) How far do his mother and sister walk daily to fetch water?
(b) What special underground structure is built in every house to collect rainwater? Water Scarcity • Madho's Village in Rajasthan 4 Marks
(a) How far do his mother and sister walk daily to fetch water?
(b) What special underground structure is built in every house to collect rainwater? Water Scarcity • Madho's Village in Rajasthan 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Desert Water Management:
(a) Daily Struggle:
• His mother and sister walk barefoot for hours across burning desert sand dunes just to fetch four clay pots (matkas) of water from a distant pond.
(b) Tanka (टांका):
• Every house constructs an underground covered water cistern called a Tanka in the courtyard. The courtyard floor is kept sloping so rainwater washes down a pipe fitted with a mesh sieve directly into the clean tanka, providing drinking water for months.
(a) Daily Struggle:
• His mother and sister walk barefoot for hours across burning desert sand dunes just to fetch four clay pots (matkas) of water from a distant pond.
(b) Tanka (टांका):
• Every house constructs an underground covered water cistern called a Tanka in the courtyard. The courtyard floor is kept sloping so rainwater washes down a pipe fitted with a mesh sieve directly into the clean tanka, providing drinking water for months.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Severe desert walk for water described
2.0 M
Tanka architecture and rooftop pipe collection detailed
2.0 M
Q5
Draw or describe a 3-step water reuse chain showing how one bucket of water can be used three times in a home.
Water Reutilization • Cascade Flow
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Water Reuse Chain:
1. Use 1 (Washing Vegetables): Fresh water is used to wash fruits and raw vegetables in a basin.
2. Use 2 (Washing Feet/Hands): The collected water is used to wash feet and dusty slippers after coming inside.
3. Use 3 (Gardening / Mop): The final water is poured into potted plants or used to wash the courtyard floor.
1. Use 1 (Washing Vegetables): Fresh water is used to wash fruits and raw vegetables in a basin.
2. Use 2 (Washing Feet/Hands): The collected water is used to wash feet and dusty slippers after coming inside.
3. Use 3 (Gardening / Mop): The final water is poured into potted plants or used to wash the courtyard floor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three logical, hygienic progressive uses of water described
3.0 M
Q6
If a leaking kitchen tap drips 1 drop of water every second:
(a) How many drops leak in 1 minute (60 seconds)?
(b) Why should dripping taps be repaired immediately? Water Drops • Counting Leaks 3 Marks
(a) How many drops leak in 1 minute (60 seconds)?
(b) Why should dripping taps be repaired immediately? Water Drops • Counting Leaks 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Leakage Calculations:
(a) Drops per Minute:
• 1 drop/second × 60 seconds = 60 drops per minute (which equals nearly 1 bucket of water wasted every single day).
(b) Immediate Repair:
• A tiny drip adds up to thousands of litres of pure treated drinking water wasted down the drain each month. Replacing a 10-rupee washer saves a precious natural resource.
(a) Drops per Minute:
• 1 drop/second × 60 seconds = 60 drops per minute (which equals nearly 1 bucket of water wasted every single day).
(b) Immediate Repair:
• A tiny drip adds up to thousands of litres of pure treated drinking water wasted down the drain each month. Replacing a 10-rupee washer saves a precious natural resource.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct calculation (60 drops/min)
1.5 M
Real-world scale of cumulative water waste explained
1.5 M
Q7
What is a 'Water Train' (Jal Doot) sent by the government during severe droughts?
Water Train • Drought Relief
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Drought Relief:
• When wells and rivers dry up completely during summer, the Indian Railways runs special freight trains fitted with huge 50,000-litre tanker wagons that transport drinking water hundreds of kilometers to drought-hit desert districts.
• When wells and rivers dry up completely during summer, the Indian Railways runs special freight trains fitted with huge 50,000-litre tanker wagons that transport drinking water hundreds of kilometers to drought-hit desert districts.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Railways transporting tanker water to drought regions
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 20 ('Drop by Drop'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Water Footprint Auditing: Zero-Water-Wastage Household
Real-Life Context: A family living in a city apartment receives 24-hour unlimited tap water and routinely uses a running hose pipe to wash their car and sweep their driveway, wasting over 400 liters of potable water daily.
Analytical Task: Design a practical 'Desert Water Wisdom Plan' for this city family to slash their water wastage by 80%.
The family can adopt desert water wisdom: (1) Bucket and Sponge Car Washing: Replace running hose pipes with a single 15-liter bucket and microfiber cloth to wash the car, saving 350 liters instantly. (2) Broom Instead of Hose: Sweep the driveway with a broom instead of hosing clean drinking water onto dry asphalt. (3) RO Purifier Reject Water Capture: Direct the wastewater drain pipe of home reverse-osmosis (RO) purifiers into a bucket to mop floors and flush toilets. (4) Turn Off Taps: Shut taps while brushing and shaving.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Eliminating running hose pipes, capturing RO reject water, behavioral discipline, 80% conservation target (4 Marks).
21
Unit 3: Family & Homes • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 21: Families can be Different
Diversity of Modern Family Structures: Single-Parent, Foster, Adoptive, and Blended Families
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- No single definition of family: Families come in varied loving configurations across societies.
- Sitamma's large joint family: Grandparents, chachas, bua, parents, and cousins living under one ancestral roof in Guntur.
- Tara's family: Living happily with her adoptive mother Meenakshi and loving grandfather (Nana) in Chennai.
- Sara and Habib's family: Living with their retired Abbu who loves watching television together.
- The universal bond across all family types: Mutual affection, emotional support, and caring in times of need.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
Describe two different family structures discussed in this chapter and how members care for one another.
Diverse Family Models
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Tara's Family: Tara was adopted by her mother Meenakshi. Tara lives with her mother and her grandfather (Nana) in Chennai. Her Nana takes her to school, helps her with homework, and the family vacations together joyfully.
2. Sara and Habib's Family: Sara and Habib work in government jobs and live with their elderly father (Abbu). In the evenings, all three sit together, watch news debates, read newspapers, and cook meals together as a cooperative team.
2. Sara and Habib's Family: Sara and Habib work in government jobs and live with their elderly father (Abbu). In the evenings, all three sit together, watch news debates, read newspapers, and cook meals together as a cooperative team.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Accurate description of Tara's adoptive-extended household
1.5 Marks
Accurate description of Sara and Habib's cooperative home
1.5 Marks
Q2
What common thread of values unites all families, regardless of whether they are big or small?
Family Values
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
The common thread uniting all families is love, mutual respect, emotional security, and shared care. Family members stand by each other during illness or hardship, celebrate achievements together, and ensure that every member feels valued and safe.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Identification of love, security, and mutual care as universal family bonds
3 Marks
Q3
Why should classmates never tease a child who lives with a single parent or grandparents?
Sensitivity & Inclusivity
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Every family structure is equally normal, honorable, and full of love. Teasing someone about their family setup hurts their feelings and displays ignorance. True friends celebrate each other's loving homes without judgment.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Promoting empathy and acceptance of diverse family structures
2 Marks
Q4
In 'Families can be Different':
Match each child's family with its family structure:
• Sitamma: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister]
• Tara: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister]
• Sara and Habib: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister]
• Taniya: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister] Family Structures • Diversity of Families 4 Marks
Match each child's family with its family structure:
• Sitamma: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister]
• Tara: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister]
• Sara and Habib: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister]
• Taniya: [Joint family living together in a large ancestral house, Single parent family living with father, Adoptive family with loving parents, Nuclear family living with mother and sister] Family Structures • Diversity of Families 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Family Diversity:
• Sitamma: Large Joint family with grandparents, chacha, bua living together in their ancestral Gwalior house.
• Tara: Raised lovingly by her single mother Meenakshi and Nana in Chennai.
• Sara and Habib: Nuclear family living with government employee father/Abbu in the city.
• Taniya: Adoptive family where loving parents adopted and care for their child.
• Sitamma: Large Joint family with grandparents, chacha, bua living together in their ancestral Gwalior house.
• Tara: Raised lovingly by her single mother Meenakshi and Nana in Chennai.
• Sara and Habib: Nuclear family living with government employee father/Abbu in the city.
• Taniya: Adoptive family where loving parents adopted and care for their child.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 4 diverse family structures correctly identified
4.0 M
Q5
Families can look very different in size and structure, but what two core qualities make every family special?
Family Values • Love and Mutual Support
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Core Family Values:
1. Unconditional Love & Care: Family members protect, care for, and support one another in times of illness, sadness, and joy.
2. Belonging & Trust: A family provides emotional safety where a child can express feelings without fear.
1. Unconditional Love & Care: Family members protect, care for, and support one another in times of illness, sadness, and joy.
2. Belonging & Trust: A family provides emotional safety where a child can express feelings without fear.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Mutual care during difficulties emphasized
1.5 M
Emotional security and love highlighted
1.5 M
Q6
How should a happy family make important decisions like planning holidays or buying household items?
Decision Making • Democratic Families
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Democratic Communication:
• All family members—including children and elders—should sit together, listen respectfully to everyone's ideas, and make decisions mutually with consensus and kindness.
• All family members—including children and elders—should sit together, listen respectfully to everyone's ideas, and make decisions mutually with consensus and kindness.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Inclusive, collective discussion described
2.0 M
Q7
Why is eating dinner together as a family considered a valuable habit?
Family Meals • Bonding Time
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Mealtime Bonding:
• Eating together allows parents and children to share what happened during their day, discuss problems, laugh together, and reinforce loving emotional connections away from digital screens.
• Eating together allows parents and children to share what happened during their day, discuss problems, laugh together, and reinforce loving emotional connections away from digital screens.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Communication and emotional bonding explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 21 ('Families can be Different'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Classroom Diversity: Supporting Children from Varied Family Backgrounds
Real-Life Context: During 'Family Day' in a school, students are asked to bring pictures of both their mother and father. A student named Aryan, whose parents are divorced and who lives with his working mother and grandmother, feels anxious and embarrassed.
Analytical Task: How should the school adapt its activities to ensure all children feel celebrated regardless of their family structure?
Schools should adopt inclusive terminology and flexible activities: (1) Inclusive 'My Loving Family' Projects: Frame assignments around 'People Who Love and Care for Me at Home' rather than rigid 'Mother & Father' templates, welcoming portraits of grandparents, single parents, adoptive guardians, or aunts. (2) Classroom Sensitization: Share stories like 'Families can be Different' to educate children that family is defined by love, warmth, and care rather than a rigid headcount.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Inclusive project framing, emotional safety for diverse family structures, empathy in education (4 Marks).
22
Unit 5: Travel, Work & Community • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 22: Left-Right
Spatial Awareness, Directional Orientation (North, South, East, West), Map Reading, and Symbols
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- Spatial awareness: Distinguishing between our left hand and right hand.
- Cardinal directions: The sun rises in the East and sets in the West; facing East, our left is North and right is South.
- Map symbols and legends: Using standardized symbols for houses, trees, post offices, schools, and hospitals.
- Reading simple neighborhood route maps to navigate safely from home to school.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
How can you find the four cardinal directions (North, South, East, West) using the morning sun?
Cardinal Directions
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stand outside in an open area in the early morning and stretch your arms out wide:
1. Face directly toward the rising morning sun: That direction is East.
2. Your back points directly toward West (where the sun sets).
3. Your left hand points straight toward North.
4. Your right hand points straight toward South.
1. Face directly toward the rising morning sun: That direction is East.
2. Your back points directly toward West (where the sun sets).
3. Your left hand points straight toward North.
4. Your right hand points straight toward South.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
East (facing rising sun) and West (back)
1.5 Marks
North (left arm) and South (right arm)
1.5 Marks
Q2
Why do maps use small pictorial symbols instead of drawing full realistic pictures of buildings and roads?
Map Symbols & Key/Legend
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Real buildings, parks, and hospitals are too huge to draw on a portable sheet of paper. Standardized symbols (like a green circle for a tree, a red plus sign for a hospital, and a dashed line for railway tracks) take up very little space, keep the map neat and uncluttered, and can be understood universally by travelers regardless of their language.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Space-saving and clutter reduction
1.5 Marks
Universal readability across languages
1.5 Marks
Q3
When Ruchira travels from home to school, mention two landmarks that fall on her right side.
Spatial Orientation
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
On Ruchira's right side as she moves along the route fall the park / playground and the bus stop.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct identification of two right-side landmarks from Ruchira's map
2 Marks
Q4
In 'Left-Right', Ruchira travels from home to school:
(a) Name three landmarks she passes on her left side.
(b) Name three landmarks she passes on her right side.
(c) Why do we use standardized map symbols instead of drawing full pictures? Mapping & Navigation • Ruchira's Journey 4 Marks
(a) Name three landmarks she passes on her left side.
(b) Name three landmarks she passes on her right side.
(c) Why do we use standardized map symbols instead of drawing full pictures? Mapping & Navigation • Ruchira's Journey 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Mapping Concepts:
(a) On Her Left Side:
• House, Tree, Playground / Park.
(b) On Her Right Side:
• Hand pump, Post Office, Hospital, General Shop.
(c) Map Symbols:
• Full pictures take up too much space and are hard to draw. Simple standardized symbols (like a cross for hospital or envelope for post office) make maps clean, easy to read, and clear for anyone navigating.
(a) On Her Left Side:
• House, Tree, Playground / Park.
(b) On Her Right Side:
• Hand pump, Post Office, Hospital, General Shop.
(c) Map Symbols:
• Full pictures take up too much space and are hard to draw. Simple standardized symbols (like a cross for hospital or envelope for post office) make maps clean, easy to read, and clear for anyone navigating.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct landmarks on left side
1.5 M
Correct landmarks on right side
1.5 M
Clear rationale for using map symbols
1.0 M
Q5
Draw or describe the standard map symbol used for:
(a) Hospital
(b) Post Office
(c) School
(d) Tree Map Symbols • Standard Keys 4 Marks
(a) Hospital
(b) Post Office
(c) School
(d) Tree Map Symbols • Standard Keys 4 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Standard Map Symbols:
• (a) Hospital: Red Plus symbol [ + ] inside a square.
• (b) Post Office: An envelope symbol [ ✉️ ] or letter 'PO'.
• (c) School: Open book icon or silhouette of children with bags.
• (d) Tree: Green cloud-like canopy with brown trunk icon [ 🌳 ].
• (a) Hospital: Red Plus symbol [ + ] inside a square.
• (b) Post Office: An envelope symbol [ ✉️ ] or letter 'PO'.
• (c) School: Open book icon or silhouette of children with bags.
• (d) Tree: Green cloud-like canopy with brown trunk icon [ 🌳 ].
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct conventional symbol described for all 4 items
4.0 M
Q6
Stand facing the rising Sun in the early morning:
(a) Which direction is directly in front of you?
(b) Which direction is behind you?
(c) Which direction is to your left hand and right hand? Cardinal Directions • Compass Basics 3 Marks
(a) Which direction is directly in front of you?
(b) Which direction is behind you?
(c) Which direction is to your left hand and right hand? Cardinal Directions • Compass Basics 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Cardinal Directions:
• (a) In front of you: East (where the sun rises).
• (b) Behind you: West (where the sun sets).
• (c) Left hand: North.
• (d) Right hand: South.
• (a) In front of you: East (where the sun rises).
• (b) Behind you: West (where the sun sets).
• (c) Left hand: North.
• (d) Right hand: South.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
East in front and West behind
1.5 M
North on left and South on right
1.5 M
Q7
What is the difference between a picture of a classroom and a map (floor plan) of a classroom?
Classroom Plan • Top-Down Perspective
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Picture vs Map:
• A picture shows the classroom from the side/front as your eyes see it with full 3D details.
• A map (floor plan) shows the classroom from directly above (bird's-eye top view) using symbols to show where desks, doors, windows, and blackboards are located.
• A picture shows the classroom from the side/front as your eyes see it with full 3D details.
• A map (floor plan) shows the classroom from directly above (bird's-eye top view) using symbols to show where desks, doors, windows, and blackboards are located.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Front perspective vs top-down aerial map view explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 22 ('Left-Right'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Practical Navigation Skills: Creating a School Fire Evacuation Map
Real-Life Context: During a school safety audit, the principal asks the Class 3 students to help map out an emergency evacuation route from their second-floor classroom to the open playground.
Analytical Task: Apply your map-making skills to explain how students should design this safety evacuation route map.
Students should design a clear, user-friendly emergency map: (1) Orient with Cardinal Directions: Place a Compass Rose (N, S, E, W) in the top-right corner. (2) Prominent Landmark Symbols: Mark classroom doors, emergency staircases, fire extinguisher locations (using a red cylinder icon), and first-aid kits (red cross). (3) Bold Green Directional Arrows: Draw thick green arrows showing the exact evacuation path down the stairs avoiding elevators. (4) Safe Assembly Point: Clearly highlight the open football field as the final safe gathering zone.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Compass rose orientation, clear legend symbols (fire exits/extinguishers), sequential directional arrows, safe assembly zone (4 Marks).
23
Unit 6: Craft, Shelter & Environment • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 23: A Beautiful Cloth
Sajida's Dupatta: Traditional Textile Printing, Block Printing, Tie & Dye, and Embroidery
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The beauty of Indian textiles: Sajida's dupatta with golden zari embroidery and mirror-work.
- Block printing: Carving wooden stamps or using sliced vegetables (ladyfinger, onion, potato) dipped in paint to create geometric patterns.
- Tie and Dye (Bandhani): Tying cloth tightly with strings before dyeing to create sunburst circular patterns.
- Natural textile dyes: Turmeric for yellow, beetroot for pink, indigo for deep blue, and spinach for green.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
How can children create beautiful repeating block-print patterns on paper using a sliced ladyfinger (okra)?
Hands-on Textile Printing
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Take a fresh ladyfinger and slice it across horizontally with a knife (under adult supervision) to expose its star-shaped pentagonal cross-section.
2. Mix water-based poster color or fabric paint in a shallow dish.
3. Dip the cut surface of the ladyfinger lightly into the paint and press it firmly onto plain paper or white cloth.
4. Repeat the stamping in straight lines, checkerboards, or flower circles to produce elegant, rhythmic floral prints.
2. Mix water-based poster color or fabric paint in a shallow dish.
3. Dip the cut surface of the ladyfinger lightly into the paint and press it firmly onto plain paper or white cloth.
4. Repeat the stamping in straight lines, checkerboards, or flower circles to produce elegant, rhythmic floral prints.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Preparation of the cross-section stamp
1 Mark
Dipping and stamping technique for repeating patterns
2 Marks
Q2
Explain the basic principle behind the traditional Indian craft of Bandhani (Tie & Dye).
Tie & Dye Technique
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Bandhani is a 'resist-dyeing' craft: Artisans pinch small portions of fine cotton or silk cloth and tie them tightly with waxed thread before dipping the fabric into a pot of bright dye. The tightly knotted sections 'resist' the liquid color and remain pristine white. When untied and dried, vibrant circular sunburst rings appear across the dyed background.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Concept of resist-dyeing using tight knots
1.5 Marks
Formation of characteristic sunburst rings and patterns
1.5 Marks
Q3
Name two kitchen ingredients that can be used to prepare natural chemical-free textile dyes.
Natural Colors
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
1. Turmeric Powder (Haldi): Produces brilliant warm yellow and golden tones.
2. Beetroot Juice / Pomegranate Peels: Produces deep reddish-pink and earthy rust tones.
2. Beetroot Juice / Pomegranate Peels: Produces deep reddish-pink and earthy rust tones.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two correct natural plant dye sources with resulting colors
2 Marks
Q4
In 'A Beautiful Cloth':
(a) What was special about the dupatta Sajida's sister gave her?
(b) In how many different ways did children drape the long unstitched dupatta in class? Textile Art • Sajida's Dupatta 3 Marks
(a) What was special about the dupatta Sajida's sister gave her?
(b) In how many different ways did children drape the long unstitched dupatta in class? Textile Art • Sajida's Dupatta 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Textile Traditions:
(a) Sajida's Dupatta:
• It was made of fine, soft cotton cloth with beautiful colorful floral embroidery and tiny glittering mirrors (aari-tari work) stitched all over it.
(b) Draping Ways:
• Children draped it as a sari, a turban (pagri), a dupatta/scarf, a lungi / dhoti, and even tied it like a baby's hammock swing.
(a) Sajida's Dupatta:
• It was made of fine, soft cotton cloth with beautiful colorful floral embroidery and tiny glittering mirrors (aari-tari work) stitched all over it.
(b) Draping Ways:
• Children draped it as a sari, a turban (pagri), a dupatta/scarf, a lungi / dhoti, and even tied it like a baby's hammock swing.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Mirror work and embroidery described
1.5 M
Multiple unstitched draping styles listed
1.5 M
Q5
Explain how to print repeated patterns on cloth using a sliced ladyfinger (bhindi) or potato as described in the chapter.
Block Printing Activity • Vegetable Art
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Vegetable Block Printing Steps:
1. Cut a fresh ladyfinger (bhindi) horizontally in half across its middle; notice the natural 5-pointed floral star pattern formed by its seed chambers.
2. Dip the cut end lightly into a plate of thick fabric paint.
3. Stamp it firmly onto a plain cotton handkerchief or sheet of paper in repeating rows to print geometric floral borders.
1. Cut a fresh ladyfinger (bhindi) horizontally in half across its middle; notice the natural 5-pointed floral star pattern formed by its seed chambers.
2. Dip the cut end lightly into a plate of thick fabric paint.
3. Stamp it firmly onto a plain cotton handkerchief or sheet of paper in repeating rows to print geometric floral borders.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cutting ladyfinger to expose star seed pattern
1.5 M
Dipping in paint and stamping repeated border pattern
1.5 M
Q6
Name three traditional Indian garments that are worn as unstitched lengths of cloth without cutting or stitching with needles.
Unstitched Garments • Indian Heritage
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Unstitched Indian Garments:
1. Sari (worn by women across India)
2. Dhoti / Lungi / Veshti (worn by men)
3. Turban (Pagri / Safa) (worn on heads).
1. Sari (worn by women across India)
2. Dhoti / Lungi / Veshti (worn by men)
3. Turban (Pagri / Safa) (worn on heads).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Three authentic unstitched Indian garments named
3.0 M
Q7
Name two natural plant sources used to dye fabrics before modern chemical colors were invented.
Natural Dyes • Organic Colors
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Natural Dyes:
1. Indigo (Neel plant): Gives deep, rich royal blue color.
2. Turmeric (Haldi) & Marigold flowers: Gives vibrant yellow and orange colors.
1. Indigo (Neel plant): Gives deep, rich royal blue color.
2. Turmeric (Haldi) & Marigold flowers: Gives vibrant yellow and orange colors.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Two authentic plant-based dye sources named
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 23 ('A Beautiful Cloth'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Reviving Natural Organic Dyes over Toxic Synthetic Chemical Dyes
Real-Life Context: Fast-fashion textile factories discharge toxic synthetic chemical dyes into nearby rivers, turning waterways pitch-black and poisoning fish and agricultural soil.
Analytical Task: Why should we encourage handloom weavers using natural herbal dyes over chemical-intensive synthetic textiles?
Natural herbal dyes derived from plants (indigo, madder, turmeric) are non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and 100% biodegradable; their wastewater enriches garden soil rather than poisoning rivers. Furthermore, supporting handloom artisans who practice traditional wooden block printing keeps rural handicraft heritage thriving, generates dignified livelihoods in villages, and combats the environmental disaster of plastic-based fast fashion.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Ecological hazards of chemical dyes vs safety of organic plant dyes, preservation of handloom livelihoods (4 Marks).
24
Unit 1: Animals & Habitats • Class 3 EVS (Classic CBSE)
Chapter 24: Web of Life
Ecological Harmony: Food Webs, Sun, Soil, Water, Air, Plants, Animals, and Human Coexistence
Scientific Principles, Environmental Values & Key Inquiries
- The interconnectedness of all living and non-living elements: Sun, Air, Water, Soil, Plants, Animals, and Humans.
- Everything in nature is linked in a dynamic 'Web of Life'; removing even one thread affects all other members.
- How non-living abiotic factors (Sun, Water, Soil) provide the foundation for all living biotic organisms.
- Human responsibility: Protecting forests, preventing water pollution, and living in respectful equilibrium with nature.
📖 NCERT Textbook Exercise Solutions & Step-by-Step Working (17 Solved Questions)
Q1
What is meant by the 'Web of Life'? How are plants, animals, and non-living elements tied together?
Web of Life Concept
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
The Web of Life describes the intricate, interdependent network of relationships connecting all living creatures (plants, animals, microorganisms, humans) with non-living environmental elements (sunlight, air, water, soil).
• The Sun powers plant photosynthesis.
• Plants absorb rainwater and soil minerals to synthesize food and oxygen.
• Herbivores eat plants, and carnivores prey on herbivores.
• When organisms die, decomposers return nutrients back to the soil, sustaining the eternal cycle.
• The Sun powers plant photosynthesis.
• Plants absorb rainwater and soil minerals to synthesize food and oxygen.
• Herbivores eat plants, and carnivores prey on herbivores.
• When organisms die, decomposers return nutrients back to the soil, sustaining the eternal cycle.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of the ecological web connecting biotic and abiotic elements
1.5 Marks
Cyclical flow: Sun ➔ Plants ➔ Animals ➔ Decomposers ➔ Soil
1.5 Marks
Q2
What would happen to the Web of Life if all green trees on Earth were cut down?
Impact of Disruption
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
If all green trees were destroyed:
1. Atmospheric oxygen would plummet while heat-trapping carbon dioxide would soar, causing runaway global heating.
2. Herbivorous animals would starve to death, causing carnivores to die out soon after.
3. Soil would wash away without tree roots to bind it, causing desertification and the total collapse of human civilization.
1. Atmospheric oxygen would plummet while heat-trapping carbon dioxide would soar, causing runaway global heating.
2. Herbivorous animals would starve to death, causing carnivores to die out soon after.
3. Soil would wash away without tree roots to bind it, causing desertification and the total collapse of human civilization.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Oxygen/carbon dioxide collapse
1 Mark
Food chain starvation
1 Mark
Soil erosion and collapse of life
1 Mark
Q3
Why are humans not 'owners' of the Earth, but rather 'caretakers' or 'trustees'?
Human Role as Stewards
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Humans are simply one thread woven into the vast web of life, completely dependent on clean air, fresh water, and plants for our very survival. As caretakers (custodians), it is our sacred responsibility to protect all species and pass down a healthy, vibrant planet to future generations.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Humans as dependent threads in the web rather than owners
1 Mark
Stewardship and conservation responsibility
1 Mark
Q4
In 'Web of Life':
(a) What does a 'Food Web' show?
(b) Trace a simple 4-link food chain on land: Grass $\rightarrow$ Grasshopper $\rightarrow$ Frog $\rightarrow$ Snake. Ecology & Interconnection • Web of Life 3 Marks
(a) What does a 'Food Web' show?
(b) Trace a simple 4-link food chain on land: Grass $\rightarrow$ Grasshopper $\rightarrow$ Frog $\rightarrow$ Snake. Ecology & Interconnection • Web of Life 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Food Web Science:
(a) Definition:
• A food web shows how all living organisms (plants, herbivores, carnivores, humans) and non-living elements (sun, water, soil) are connected together in nature for energy and survival.
(b) 4-Link Food Chain:
• Green Grass (uses sunlight to make food) $\rightarrow$
• Grasshopper (eats grass) $\rightarrow$
• Frog (eats grasshopper) $\rightarrow$
• Snake (eats frog).
(a) Definition:
• A food web shows how all living organisms (plants, herbivores, carnivores, humans) and non-living elements (sun, water, soil) are connected together in nature for energy and survival.
(b) 4-Link Food Chain:
• Green Grass (uses sunlight to make food) $\rightarrow$
• Grasshopper (eats grass) $\rightarrow$
• Frog (eats grasshopper) $\rightarrow$
• Snake (eats frog).
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of ecological interdependence
1.5 M
Accurate 4-step linear food chain
1.5 M
Q5
In the textbook classroom game with a ball of string:
(a) Each child wears a badge of an animal, plant, sun, or water. How does the string connect them all?
(b) What happens when one child (like 'Forest') lets go of the string? Connecting String Activity • Classroom Ecosystem 3 Marks
(a) Each child wears a badge of an animal, plant, sun, or water. How does the string connect them all?
(b) What happens when one child (like 'Forest') lets go of the string? Connecting String Activity • Classroom Ecosystem 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
String Game Insights:
(a) Interconnection:
• The ball of string is passed from Sun to Grass, Grass to Deer, Deer to Tiger, Tiger to Soil, creating an intricate web of string where everyone is holding a piece.
(b) Breakage of Balance:
• When 'Forest' drops the string, the tension collapses, and all other connected children feel their strings sag. This visually demonstrates that if forests are destroyed, every animal, water source, and human is directly harmed.
(a) Interconnection:
• The ball of string is passed from Sun to Grass, Grass to Deer, Deer to Tiger, Tiger to Soil, creating an intricate web of string where everyone is holding a piece.
(b) Breakage of Balance:
• When 'Forest' drops the string, the tension collapses, and all other connected children feel their strings sag. This visually demonstrates that if forests are destroyed, every animal, water source, and human is directly harmed.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Passing string creating visual web of life
1.5 M
Ecosystem collapse demonstration explained
1.5 M
Q6
Name three non-living elements of nature without which no plant or animal could survive.
Natural Elements • Non-Living Supporters of Life
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Non-Living Life Supporters:
1. Sunlight (Sun): Ultimate source of heat and energy for plant photosynthesis.
2. Water: Essential for circulation, digestion, and life fluids in all cells.
3. Air (Oxygen): Essential for respiration in animals, humans, and plants.
1. Sunlight (Sun): Ultimate source of heat and energy for plant photosynthesis.
2. Water: Essential for circulation, digestion, and life fluids in all cells.
3. Air (Oxygen): Essential for respiration in animals, humans, and plants.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Sunlight, Water, and Air named with biological reasons
3.0 M
Q7
Why is human survival directly dependent on preserving wildlife and biodiversity?
Earth Pledge • Global Conservation
2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Biosphere Integrity:
• Humans are not separate from nature; we are just one strand in the web of life. Forests provide our rainfall and oxygen, bees pollinate our crops, and rivers provide our drinking water. If nature is degraded, human civilization cannot survive.
• Humans are not separate from nature; we are just one strand in the web of life. Forests provide our rainfall and oxygen, bees pollinate our crops, and rivers provide our drinking water. If nature is degraded, human civilization cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Ecosystem services and human dependence on nature explained
2.0 M
Q8
In Chapter 24 ('Web of Life'), what animals did the characters observe, and how do they move from place to place?
Observation Time • Animals and Habits
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Observations:
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
Animals move in diverse ways adapted to their bodies:
• Birds (Crow, Pigeon): Fly using wings and hop on two feet.
• Mammals (Cow, Dog): Walk and run on four legs.
• Reptiles (Lizard, Snake): Crawl on walls or slither on the ground.
• Insects (Ant, Grasshopper): Walk on six legs and hop/fly.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Birds, mammals, reptiles, insects movement
3 M
Q9
Name two animals that live:
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
(a) On trees
(b) In water
(c) On land
(d) Underground in burrows. Find Out & Write • Animal Habitats 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Habitats:
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
• (a) On trees: Monkey, Squirrel, Owl.
• (b) In water: Fish, Frog, Crocodile.
• (c) On land: Horse, Elephant, Goat.
• (d) In burrows: Rabbit, Earthworm, Snake.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Correct examples for all 4 habitats
2 M
Q10
How do our five sense organs help us understand and navigate our daily environment?
Discuss & Share • Our Senses
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Five Senses:
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
1. Eyes: Help us see shapes, colours, and identify hazards.
2. Ears: Help us hear traffic horns, spoken words, and alarm sounds.
3. Nose: Helps us smell food, flowers, and detect smoke or gas leaks.
4. Tongue: Helps us taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter food.
5. Skin: Helps us feel touch, heat, cold, roughness, and pain.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
All 5 sense organs explained with functions
3 M
Q11
Where does rainwater come from, and why do plants and trees look fresher and greener after a rain shower?
Water Cycle & Weather • Rain and Clouds
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Rain and Plant Health:
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
• Rain comes from water evaporating from rivers, ponds, and seas, forming clouds in the sky that cool and condense into rain droplets.
• Rain washes off thick dust accumulated on leaves, unblocks stomata for breathing, and deeply soaks the roots with fresh mineral-rich moisture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Water cycle / cloud formation
1.5 M
Why plants look greener after rain
1.5 M
Q12
Why do people living in Kerala eat more rice, fish, and coconut, while people in Punjab eat more wheat chapatis, mustard greens, and lassi?
Food Diversity • Regional Diets
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Regional Food Factors:
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
• What people eat depends directly on what grows easily and abundantly in their climate and geography.
• Kerala has coastal climate, abundant rainfall, and coconut groves, making fish and rice staples.
• Punjab has fertile plains ideal for wheat and mustard cultivation, and a strong dairy culture.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Climate and agriculture connection
1.5 M
Kerala and Punjab examples explained
1.5 M
Q13
Match each food item to its primary method of cooking:
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
(a) Idli — (1) Frying
(b) Puri — (2) Steaming
(c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa. Cooking Methods • Kitchen Science 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Matching:
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
• (a) Idli — (2) Steaming
• (b) Puri — (1) Frying in oil
• (c) Roti — (3) Roasting on Tawa.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Idli-Steaming, Puri-Frying, Roti-Roasting
3 M
Q14
Why are houses in heavy-rainfall regions like Assam built on bamboo stilts with sloping roofs?
Shelter & Houses • Diversity in Homes
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Stilt Houses:
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
• Bamboo Stilts: Keep the house 10 to 12 feet above ground level to prevent floodwaters and wild animals from entering.
• Sloping Roofs: Allow torrential rainwater to slide off quickly without accumulating or causing leaks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Reason for bamboo stilts (floods)
1.5 M
Reason for sloping roof (rain runoff)
1.5 M
Q15
Identify the worker who:
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
(a) Mends our shoes
(b) Delivers letters and parcels
(c) Shapes clay into earthen pots on a wheel
(d) Treats sick people and prescribes medicines. Community Helpers • Occupations 2 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Community Helpers:
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
• (a) Mends shoes: Cobbler
• (b) Delivers letters: Postman / Mail carrier
• (c) Shapes clay pots: Potter
• (d) Treats sick people: Doctor.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Cobbler, Postman, Potter, Doctor
2 M
Q16
What is the 'Web of Life'? Draw a simple food chain showing how grass, deer, and lion are connected.
Web of Life • Food Chain
3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Web of Life & Food Chain:
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
• The Web of Life shows that every living organism is interconnected and depends on others for survival.
• Food Chain: Sunlight → Grass (Producer) → Deer (Herbivore) → Lion (Carnivore).
If grass disappears, deer starve; if deer disappear, lions cannot survive.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of Web of Life
1.5 M
Grass → Deer → Lion chain explained
1.5 M
Q17
Write True or False:
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
(a) Blind people can read books written in Braille script using their fingertips.
(b) Rainwater is the main natural source of fresh water on Earth.
(c) Animals do not have feelings and cannot communicate danger to each other. Review Questions • True or False 3 Marks
✅ Step-by-Step Model Answer & Solution:
Answers:
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
• (a) True: Braille uses raised dots felt with fingertips.
• (b) True: Rain replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• (c) False: Animals communicate through warning calls, scents, and body language to alert their group of predators.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
True, True, False with reasoning
3 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study (CBQ)
Synthesizing EVS Wisdom: Becoming Young Environmental Guardians
Real-Life Context: Having completed all 24 chapters of Class 3 EVS (exploring animals, plants, water, food, homes, crafts, and the web of life), students take a green pledge.
Analytical Task: Synthesize the core message of Class 3 EVS by proposing four daily lifestyle commitments every young student can follow to protect our Earth's Web of Life.
Every student can become a guardian of the Web of Life through four simple, daily commitments: (1) Water Conservation: Never let taps run idly; treat every drop as precious nectar. (2) Green Diet & Anti-Waste: Finish all food on the plate, enjoy seasonal nutritious fruits, and avoid single-use plastic wrappers. (3) Plant & Animal Compassion: Adopt a balcony sapling, feed neighborhood birds fresh water during summers, and treat street animals with gentleness. (4) Waste Segregation: Separate wet organic peels for garden composting and recycle scrap paper to save forest trees.
CBSE Assessment Rubric: Synthesis across water, food, animal compassion, and waste reduction; practical student-led eco-habits (4 Marks).