By reviewing Kerala Syllabus 5th Standard Social Science Notes Pdf and Class 5 Social Science Chapter 8 Know Our Land Notes Questions and Answers Kerala SCERT Solutions, students can improve their conceptual understanding.
Class 5 Social Science Chapter 8 Know Our Land Notes Questions and Answers
Class 5 Social Science Chapter 8 Question Answer Kerala Syllabus
Question 1.
a. Vaniyamkulam has a physiography consisting of hills and plains. Which is the major river seen in the outline?
b. Find out the major mode of transport that runs parallel to Bharathapuzha.
Answer:
a. Bharathapuzha,
b. Railway
Question 2.
How does Bharathapuzha influence the agriculture, food habits, transport, etc., of the people in Vaniyamkulam Grama Panchayat? Discuss.
Answer:
- The fertile soil on the banks of Bharathapuzha is suitable for agriculture.
- Employment opportunities related to the river.
- The possibility of water transport.
Question 3.
List out the various geographical features, various crops and occupations of the area where you live.
Answer:
(Hints) Specify whether the place where you live is a village or a city, and record its geographical area, major crops, occupations, etc.
Question 4.
Based on the indicators provided, find out whether agriculture and other occupations in your country are related to geographical features and prepare a regional geographical document. Indicators: Details of the Area/ward, Geographical features, Transportation, Industries and Fertility of soil.
Answer:
(Hints)
1. Details of the Area/Ward
- Name of the Area/Ward:
- Location:
- Basic Geography:
- Total Population:
2. Nature of the Terrain
- Climate:
- Water Bodies:
- Plains:
- Hilly Region:
- Soil Fertility:
3. Major Crops
- Crops:
- Agricultural Tools:
4. Occupational Sectors
- Agriculture-related Occupations:
- Industry:
- Market/Trade:
5. Transportation Facilities
- Roads and Pathways:
- Rivers:
6. Issues in the Area
- Water scarcity, agricultural crisis, underdeveloped industries, unemployment.
7. Solutions
- Water conservation schemes, introducing new initiatives in agriculture, providing support to small-scale industries.
Question 5.
Observe the political map and physiographical map of Kerala given in the textbook and find out the following. (Physiographic divisions consisting of each district, districts with coastal areas, districts comprising all three physiographic categories)
Answer:
Question 6.
Read the chapters narrating how soil is formed in Jawaharlal Nehru’s book ‘Letters From a Father to His Daughter’ and discuss in the class.
Answer:
(Hints) Include the given information in the class discussion.
The process of weathering rock to form soil takes a long time. Topography, climate, rock structure and age, and the activity of plants, animals, and other microorganisms contribute to soil formation. It is estimated that it takes more than a thousand years for the formation of soil of one-inch thickness.
Question 7.
Collect pictures of a variety of human activities that use soil. Prepare a digital album with the help of teachers and present them to the Social Science Club.
Answer:
Question 8.
Collect more information about important types of soil with the help of the teacher, make notes, and present them in the class.
Answer:
Laterite Soil: Found in Kerala’s midlands and highlands, laterite soil is reddish due to high iron and aluminum content. It is porous and slightly acidic, making it ideal for plantation crops like tea, coffee, rubber, and spices. However, it requires efficient water management because of its low moisture retention.
Alluvial Soil: Alluvial soil is located in the coastal plains and river valleys, especially along rivers like the Periyar and Bharathapuzha. It is highly fertile and retains moisture well, which makes it suitable for crops like rice, vegetables, pulses, and coconut. Its main challenge is erosion, especially near rivers.
Black Soil: Also called “Kari” soil in some parts of Kerala, black soil is found in areas like Palakkad. It is clay-rich and has a high water-retention capacity, making it useful for crops like cotton, rice, and pulses. However, it hardens when dry, making it challenging to cultivate in dry seasons.
Peaty Soil: Primarily found in low-lying areas like Kuttanad, peaty soil is dark, rich in organic matter, and highly acidic. It is often waterlogged, which suits rice cultivation in the region. However, proper drainage and liming are needed to manage its acidity for effective farming.
Sandy Soil: This soil is located along Kerala’s coastal belt and is loose, well-drained, and low in nutrients. It supports coconut and cashew trees, though it generally has low fertility and poor water retention, which limits its agricultural use without soil improvement measures.
Forest Soil: Found in areas with dense vegetation, such as forested highlands, forest soil is rich in organic matter due to decomposing leaves and plant material. This soil type is fertile but can be acidic, depending on the local vegetation. It is usually dark, loose, and well-drained, supporting crops like tea, coffee, and various fruits when the forests are cleared for agriculture. Forest soil requires sustainable management to prevent nutrient loss and erosion.
Red Soil: Known for its reddish color due to high iron content, red soil is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions with high temperatures and moderate rainfall. It is less fertile than alluvial soil, as it has fewer organic nutrients, but it can be productive with the right fertilization. Red soil is porous and slightly acidic, making it suitable for crops like millets, pulses, groundnut, and occasionally cotton.
Question 9.
Collect soil types from your area and identify their characteristics with the help of the teacher, write them on a chart and demonstrate them to the class.
Answer:
(Hints) Find out the soil types in your area from the answer given above.
Question 10.
What are the sources of water in your area?
Answer:
Wells, ponds, streams, etc.
Question 11.
List out the rivers in Kerala observing the ‘Kerala River Map’ kept in your Social Science lab. Classify the rivers flowing eastward and westward.
Answer:
| Eastward flowing rivers | Westward flowing rivers |
| Kabani, Bhavani, Pambar | Periyar,Bharathapuzha, Pamba, Chaliyar, Chalakudy, Kadalundi, Achankovil, Kallada, Muvattupuzha, Valapattanam, Chandragiri, Manimala, Vamanapuram, Kuppam, Meenachil, Kuttiady, Karamana,Shriya,Kariankode,Ithikkara,Neyyar,Mahe,Kercher, Pumba,Uppala,Karuvannur, Anjarakandy, Tirur, Neeleswaram, Pallikkal, Kallayi, Korapuzha, Moral, Kavvayi, Thanikkudam, Thalassery, Mamam, Chithari, Ramapuram, Ayiroor, Manjeswaram |
Question 12.
Are the water bodies in your country being polluted? Discuss. What suggestions can be put forward to protect water bodies from getting polluted?
Answer:
Yes, waste must be disposed of properly, avoid the use of artificial fertilisers and pesticides, and control construction activities near water bodies.
Question 13.
Prepare placards of water conservation messages and organise a rally for water conservation. Prepare a speech about the importance of rainwater harvesting.
Answer:
(Hints) Prepare placards using the messages given below:
- “Water Conservation is a Duty, Not an Option!”
- “Don’t Let Our Rivers Run Dry!”
- “Save Water Today for a Thirsty Tomorrow”
Speech
Good morning everyone,
Today, I want to talk about the importance of rainwater harvesting. As water scarcity becomes a growing concern, collecting and storing rainwater is a simple yet effective solution. By capturing rainwater from rooftops and other surfaces, we can reduce our dependence on groundwater and other sources. This water can be used for irrigation, cleaning, and even drinking with proper filtration. Rainwater harvesting not only conserves water but also helps prevent flooding and soil erosion. Let’s all take responsibility and start harvesting rainwater to ensure a sustainable water future for all. Thank you.
Question 14.
The government implements various schemes to protect and maintain the existing water sources. Find out the objectives of these projects.
Answer:
| Project | Objectives |
| Ini Njan Ozhukatte | This project is focused on protecting Kerala’s rivers and water distribution systems. It aims to promote the rejuvenation of water sources, river basin cleaning, and rainwater harvesting. |
| Malinya Mukatham Navakeralam | A project aimed at promoting cleanliness and environmental conservation. It emphasizes the importance of waste management, preventing the pollution of water sources, and ensuring the prevention of drought. |
| Thelineerozhukum Navakeralam | The goal of this project is to improve the water quality in Kerala’s water sources, clean and rejuvenate rivers and dams, and ensure cleanliness in coastal areas. |
| Jal Jeevan Mission | This mission aims to provide all rural households with piped drinking water by 2024. It also includes the conservation of water sources, safe drinking water distribution, and rainwater harvesting. |
Question 15.
Observe and list out the major crops grown in your area.
Answer:
Paddy cultivation, Banana,. Vegetables, Tapioca, Colocasia, Cashew, Ginger, Pepper, Rubber, Coconut.
Question 16.
a. List out the major crops of highland, midland, and coastal regions.
b. Identify and complete the list with the essential factors that come together to ensure the agricultural prosperity of an area.
Answer:
a.
| Areas | Major Crops |
| Highland | Tea, Cardamom, Coffee, Pepper, Turmeric, Ginger, Rubber etc |
| Midland | Tapioca, Colocasia, Yams, Bananas, Cashew, Paddy Cultivation |
| Coastal regions | Paddy Cultivation, Coconut |
b. Fertile soil, quality seeds, manpower, suitable climate, irrigation facility, modern technology. learn technology.
Question 17.
List out the employments mentioned in the below picture in tune with appropriate physiographical divisions.
Answer:
| Physiographical divisions | Employment |
| Highland | Rubber Cultivation, Tea cultivation |
| Midland | Paddy cultivation, Pottery making |
| Coastal area | Pisciculture, Husk threshing |
Question 18.
Investigate and make notes on the changes brought about by modern technology in agricultural and traditional occupations.
Answer:
Modern technology has brought significant changes to both the agricultural and traditional occupational sectors. New techniques and technologies in agriculture have led to improved crop yields and help overcome challenges like climate change. Among the key technologies and innovations are hydroponic farming, aquaponic farming, terrace farming, and microgreens.
Hydroponic Farming: Hydroponics is a technique that involves growing vegetables, fruits, and plants without using soil, instead using water enriched with essential nutrients. Changes: It introduces a new approach to traditional farming. Small spaces can now efficiently grow vegetables and flowers. It reduces water usage by 70-90%, making it highly water-efficient.
Aquaponic Farming: Aquaponics is a combined approach of fish farming and hydroponics. Fish waste is used as nutrients for plants, while the water from the fish tanks is provided to the plants, and in turn, the plants purify the water.
Changes: This is a new method for the management of traditional water resources and organic farming. It allows for the farming of both animals and plants in a sustainable and integrated way.
Terrace Farming: Terrace farming involves creating flat areas on sloped or hilly terrain to cultivate crops. This method helps prevent soil erosion in areas where traditional farming is not possible.
Changes: It increases farming efficiency in hilly regions, helps in the effective use of water resources, and contributes to the conservation of slopes and hills.
Microgreens: Microgreens are young, small plants harvested just 1-2 inches in height, packed with nutrients. They are rich in vitamins and can be grown in small spaces, including indoors.
Changes: This represents a new shift in food culture, providing a highly nutritious food source that is easy to grow at home or in limited spaces.
Major Changes Due to Modern Technology:
Increased Productivity: New technologies provide faster, higher yields with less space and water compared to traditional farming methods.
Reduced Water Usage: Systems like hydroponics and aquaponics use water more efficiently, contributing to water conservation.
Organic Products: Innovations like microgreens have become beneficial for health and well- being.
New Employment Opportunities: The use of advanced technology creates new job opportunities in the agricultural sector.
These technological changes are not only modernising traditional farming methods but also addressing challenges like climate change and water scarcity.
Question 19.
Prepare a digital album with the help of your teacher by collecting pictures related to prevention and relief operations of natural disasters.
Answer:
Extended Activities
Question 1.
Prepare a wall poster with information about soil types, occupations, crops, etc. in all the three physiographical divisions of Kerala.
Answer:
(Hints)
- Title
- The wall poster should be prepared with information containing pictures of the three topographical divisions of Kerala and their main agricultural crops, soil varieties and occupations.
Question 2.
Find out the properties of soil on your school premises with the help of ‘Mannu’ App. Select the crops that can be cultivated on the school premises from the app. Under the auspices of the Agricultural Club, increase the fertility of the soil using the tips from Mannu App and cultivate vegetables enough for your lunch.
Answer:
(Hints) Understand the characteristics of the soil in your school area and grow vegetables using the
‘Soil App’.
Ways to use ‘Soil App’:
- Install app Select the place
- Collect soil samples
- Perform analysis
- See soil characteristics
- Check the information
- Report
Question 3.
Organise a seminar based on the topic ‘Kerala’s Physiography and Life of the People.’ Collect information on soil, water, crops, and occupations for each physiographical division.
Answer:
(Hints)
Seminar Title: ‘Kerala’s Physiography and Life of the People.’
Introduction:
Key topics: To cover the topography of Kerala, the explanation of soil, water, farming practices etc. of different regions, the lifestyles and employment opportunities of the people, cultural and social differences.
Explanation: The relationship between topography and livelihoods, how local development and environmental protection affect nature, and what steps are being taken for environmental protection. Conclusion:
Question 4.
Discuss the problems faced by the agriculture sector in your locality with the local farmers. Also ask for solutions to their issues. Prepare a report.
Answer:
Farmers in our area are facing major challenges in the agricultural sector. Climate change is a significant issue, with irregular rainfall and droughts at unusual times leading to crop losses. Soil degradation has also become a major cause of reduced yields. The lack of water resources, even in hilly areas, hinders the growth of agriculture due to insufficient irrigation. Farmers are often forced to sell their produce at very low prices, with the dominance of intermediaries and the lack of proper market facilities further affecting them.
As solutions, farmers have suggested the need for water conservation systems, promoting organic farming, and increasing the use of modern technology. They believe that consistent government support and direct connections with consumers could also help address these issues.
Question 5.
Visit the official website of the Kerala Disaster Management Authority and learn its activities.
Answer:
The State Disaster Management Authority is an agency constituted in the state under the National Disaster Management Act of 2005. Entered into force on 4 May 2007. The Disaster Management Authority is governed by the Executive Committee, a State Executive Committee with the Chief Minister as its Chairman and the State Revenue Minister as its Vice-Chairman. The objectives of the authority are to formulate a disaster management policy for the state, identify natural disaster-prone areas and plan disaster management plans involving various departments. Apart from this, there is a district-level disaster management committee chaired by the district collector in the respective districts. The objectives of the Authority are to classify disasters such as natural disasters, man-made disasters and deadly epidemics and reduce their impact, mitigate the loss of life and economic losses, provide assistance to those affected by disasters, and coordinate rehabilitation activities.
Class 5 Social Science Know Our Land Notes Questions and Answers
Question 1.
What are the three physiographical divisions of Kerala?
Answer:
Three physiographical divisions of Kerala are the Highland, Midland and Coastal areas.
Question 2.
Write the features of Highland in Kerala?
Answer:
It is a physiographical section that is located about 75 meters above sea level and includes hills, mountains, and peaks. Highland is a region that receives heavy rainfall and is generally full of greenery. All the 44 rivers of Kerala originate from the Highlands.
Question 3.
What is the height range of the Midland, and what are its features?
Answer:
Midland is a physiographic division located between the highlands and the coastal region. The altitude of this area ranges from 7.5 meters to 75 meters above sea level. The midland is characterised by hillocks, valleys, and river banks.
Question 4.
What are the features of the coastal area of Kerala?
Answer:
This is a landscape that is adjacent to the Lakshadweep Sea. Located close to the coastal region, this area has an altitude of up to 7.5 meters above sea level.
Question 5.
What are the major monsoon seasons of Kerala?
Answer:
There are two main rainy seasons in Kerala. They are Southwest Monsoon or Kalavarsham, Northeast Monsoon or Thulavarsham.
Question 6.
Explain the monsoon season in Kerala.
Answer:
Monsoons are winds that change the direction in accordance with seasonal changes. The southwest monsoon winds normally blow from June to September in the northern part of the equator in the Indian Ocean. They move towards inland from the southwest direction. As they blow from the sea, they are moist. These winds which enter the land are blocked by the Western Ghats. As a result, the western coasts, including Kerala, receive high rainfall. This is the southwest monsoon. In Kerala, this monsoon season is known as ‘Kalavarsham’. During the months of October and November, the monsoon winds blow in the opposite direction from the northeast. These winds are known as the northeast monsoon winds. Since a part of these winds passes over the Bay of Bengal, it becomes moisture-laden and causes rain in many parts of the southern states of India. This monsoon season is known as ‘Thulavarsham’ in Kerala.
Question 7.
In which rainy season Kerala receives most of the rainfall?
Answer:
Most of the rainfall received in Kerala is during the southwest monsoon season.
Question 8.
Explain the formation of the soil.
Answer:
Soil is one of the main factors responsible for the existence of life on earth. The process of weathering rock to form soil takes a long time. Topography, climate, rock structure and age, and the activity of plants, animals, and other microorganisms contribute to soil formation. It is estimated that it takes more than a thousand years for the formation of soil of one-inch thickness.
Question 9.
What are the main soil types of Kerala?
Answer:
Laterite Soil, Red Soil, Alluvial Soil, and Forest Soil are the main soil types in Kerala.
Question 10.
What are the reasons that adversely affect the soil?
Answer:
Application of excessive fertiliser and pesticide, Plastic waste in soil, Unscientific mining and agricultural practices, large-scale discharge of wastewater into the soil, overgrazing, etc., adversely affect the soil.
Question 11.
What are the ways to conserve the soil?
Answer:
Mangroves, Coir Geotextiles, Stone wall fence, Terrace farming, Crop rotation, Contour farming and Strip cropping etc, are the soil conservation methods.
Question 11.
Explain about Kerala’s water resources.
Answer:
Water is a natural resource that is indispensable for human existence. The important sources of water on Earth are rivers, springs, ponds, lakes etc. Kerala has an undulating topography that lays uneven from Sahya Mountain in the east to the Arabian Sea in the west. The rivers that originate from the Sahya Mountain range flow to the backwaters and the sea and make Kerala abundant in water. Apart from these, there are many lakes and ponds in our land. There are 44 rivers in Kerala which originate from the highlands. Of these, 3 rivers flow eastward and 41 rivers flow westward. Although Kerala is generally rich in water, due to the geographical slope, the water from the springs in Kerala reaches the Arabian Sea very quickly.
Question 12.
What are the ways to conserve water?
Answer:
Water conservation can be ensured through rain pits, rainwater harvesting, bunds, and mulching.
Question 13.
What are the reasons for polluting water bodies?
Answer:
Waste from industries, plastic waste, petroleum (oil) pollution, etc., pollute water bodies and adversely affect the survival of living organisms.
Question 14.
What are the schemes implemented by the government to protect the water resources of Kerala?
Answer:
The government implements various schemes to protect and maintain the existing water sources: Ini Njan Ozhukatte – Haritha Keralam Mission, Malinya Mukatham Navakeralam – Department of Local Self-Government, Thelineerozhukum Navakeralam – Department of Local Self-Government, Jal Jeevan Mission – Government of India.
Question 15.
What are the factors that influence the growth of agriculture?
Answer:
The agriculture of each region is related to its physiography and climate. Soil, irrigation facilities and altitude from sea level also contribute to the cultivation.
Question 16.
Write a note on the major agricultural crops in Highland, Midland and Coastal areas.
Answer:
Fertile soil and abundant rainfall provide ideal conditions for a variety of crops in Kerala. The cold climate experienced due to the high altitude above sea level and the sloping topography creates a favourable condition for the cultivation of crops like tea, cardamom, coffee, pepper, etc., in the highland region. The topography and soil characteristics contribute to the crop diversity in the midland. Along with tubers such as tapioca, colocasia, and yams, bananas, as well as rubber cultivation, are widespread in the Midlands. Kerala is the largest producer of rubber in India. The presence of alluvial soil in the coastal area is suitable for paddy cultivation. The saline soil here is favourable for the abundant growth of coconuts. The backwaters are used for fish farming.
Question 17.
Write some examples of festivals related to weather and topography.
Answer:
Many of the festivals in Kerala are closely related to weather and topography. The festivals of Onam and Vishu are associated with the harvest festival. Examples of celebrations related to weather and topography include boat races and bull-race held in the waterbodies of Kerala after the monsoon season.
Question 18.
Write a note on the job diversity of Kerala?
Answer:
Apart from agriculture, the major occupational areas in Kerala include duck farming, fishing, honey collection and coir industry. Along with progress in agriculture, advancements in other fields of work are important to improve the living conditions of people. Natural resources and human resources play an important role in determining the progress of the people of a region. The work culture of each region has been formed according to the topography and climate of that region. Husk threshing and rope picking in backwater shores, paddy cultivation, and duck rearing in Kuttanad are examples of this. Advancements in education, improved socio-infrastructured conditions, and modern technology in Kerala have led to positive changes in the employment people engaged in.
Question 19.
Why are there so many ecologically vulnerable areas in Kerala?
Answer:
Kerala has a physiography with many ecologically vulnerable areas. Apart from the crises caused by human intervention, some natural calamities also harm the living world, such as Cyclones, Wildfires, Floods, Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Landslides etc. The tsunami caused in 2004, the major floods in 2018, and landslides in Kavalappara in 2019 and Pettimudi in 2020 have made life difficult for the people in those areas.
Question 20.
Define Natural Disasters.
Answer:
Natural disasters are natural phenomena that endanger life, property, and the environment.
Question 21.
Write some examples of natural disasters caused by human intervention.
Answer:
Human interventions such as unscientific agriculture, deforestation, building construction, unscientific mining activity, etc., cause natural calamities.
Question 22.
What are the government departments and systems functioning in Kerala for the prevention and mitigation of natural disasters?
Answer:
Kerala Revenue Disaster Management Department, State Disaster Management Authority, District Disaster Management Authority, Disaster Risk Analysis Cell, Land and Disaster Management Institute
Question 23.
What preparations can be made for disaster management and mitigation?
Answer:
Anticipate certain disasters with the help of modern technology, Ensure necessary measures for rescue operations, Rehabilitate the disaster victims In disaster-prone areas, issue warnings and take steps to create awareness and evacuate people, Set relief camps and plan for the provision of food, clothing, shelter, and medical care, Take steps to manage situations of disasters in future.
Know Our Land Class 5 Notes Pdf
- Three physiographical divisions of Kerala are the Highland, Midland and Coastal areas. Highland located about 75 meters above sea level and includes hills, mountains, and peaks.
- Midland is the area ranges from 7.5 meters to 75 meters above sea level.
- Coastal area has an altitude of up to 7.5 meters above sea level.
- There are two main rainy seasons in Kerala: Southwest Monsoon, or Kalavarsham and Northeast Monsoon or Thulavarsham.
- Kerala receives most of the rainfall during the southwest monsoon.
- Summer season in Kerala is from March to May.
- Laterite Soil, Red Soil, Alluvial Soil, Black Soil, Peat Soil and Forest Soil are the main soil types in Kerala.
- There are 44 rivers in Kerala which originate from the highlands.
- 3 rivers flow eastward, and 41 rivers flow westward in Kerala.
- The agriculture of each region is related to its physiography and climate.
- Soil, irrigation facilities and altitude from sea level also contribute to the cultivation.
- Fertile soil and abundant rainfall provide ideal conditions for a variety of crops in Kerala.
- Many of the festivals in Kerala are closely related to weather and topography.
- Kerala’s natural beauty and favourable climate make people’s lives easier. But sometimes, natural disasters and calamities occur.
- Kerala has a physiography with many ecologically vulnerable areas.
- Apart from the crises caused by human intervention, some natural calamities also harm the living world, such as Cyclones, Wildfires, Floods, Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Landslides, etc.
- Natural disasters are natural phenomena that endanger life, property, and the environment. Such natural calamities adversely affect humans and other living beings.
- Government departments and systems that work for the management and mitigation of natural disasters are the Kerala Revenue Disaster Management Department, State Disaster Management Authority, District Disaster Management Authority, Disaster Risk Analysis Cell, and Land and Disaster Management Institute.