AWARE_G05_GK_MB_AY25_Ebook by Uolo

Navigate the Rapidly Changing World

AWARE

Navigate the Rapidly Changing World

Acknowledgements

Academic Authors: Kashika Parnami, Arpit Agarwal, Urmi Maitra, Anuj Gupta

Creative Directors: Bhavna Tripathi, Mangal Singh Rana, Satish

Book Production: Rakesh Kumar Singh, Sanjay Kumar Goel

Project Lead: Chandani Goyal

VP, Learning: Abhishek Bhatnagar

All products and brand names used in this book are trademarks, registered trademarks or trade names of their respective owners.

First impression 2024

Second impression 2025

This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, resold, hired out, or otherwise circulated without the publisher’s prior written consent in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition including this condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser and without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above-mentioned publisher of this book.

Book Title: Aware General Knowledge 5

ISBN: 978-81-980193-8-7

Published by Uolo EdTech Private Limited

Corporate Office Address:

85, Sector 44, Gurugram, Haryana 122003

CIN: U74999DL2017PTC322986

Illustrations and images: www.shutterstock.com, www.stock.adobe.com and www.freepik.com

All suggested use of the internet should be under adult supervision.

To Parents and Teachers

In the dynamic and ever-changing world of the 21st century, knowledge is a beacon that guides us through the myriad challenges and opportunities that come our way. In this age of information, possessing a keen sense of general knowledge and awareness has become more critical than ever before. This awareness becomes a compass that helps us navigate through the complexities of our modern existence, allowing us to make informed decisions, think critically, and appreciate the world’s diversity.

The NEP (National Education Policy) 2020 emphasises the need to develop in learners the respect towards fundamental duties and constitutional values, generate awareness on one’s roles and responsibilities in a dynamic world, foster a sense of national pride and global citizenship.

On that note, we are delighted to present this comprehensive and engaging General Knowledge and Current Affairs book, designed specifically for learners in grades 1 to 8. This book, which spans nine thoughtfully curated themes, will serve as a constant companion in the quest for knowledge and awareness.

The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and it’s crucial that young minds are well-informed about the happenings around them. Topics in The Year Gone By theme offer insights into the significant events and milestones of the previous year.

In Science and Technology, learners explore groundbreaking innovations and discoveries that are actively defining and shaping our future.

In Earth and Environment, learners explore topics related to sustainability and environmental conservation. Recognising the delicate balance in our planet’s ecosystem and the paramount importance of preserving it are vital 21st-century skills.

In International Affairs, learners explore landmark global events of the past and the present, and developments across the world.

The theme Incredible India will help learners to explore the rich tapestry of our nation’s history, culture and heritage.

In Sports, learners explore the world of games, athletes, and the importance of teamwork and physical fitness.

The theme, Art and Culture enables the learners to appreciate human creativity, celebrate diverse traditions and discover the rich heritage of human expression across the world.

Life Skills and Financial Literacy provide learners with valuable practical skills essential for navigating their lives with confidence and competence.

This book is crafted to offer informative and enjoyable learning experiences, incorporating clear explanations, captivating visuals and abundant questions for interactive classroom engagement.

This book is supplemented by a digital and interactive learning platform. QR codes in each topic facilitate compatibility with smart classrooms and enable at-home access. The digital resources include topic-specific videos and learning experiences on current affairs and developments around the world.

Welcome to the world of General Knowledge and Current Affairs! We wish the best to all the teachers and learners!

Key Elements of a Topic — a Quick Glance

World Leaders, 2024

this QR code to see the quiz.

Practice

1 Name the leaders. a Prime Minister of India b Prime Minister of the UK c President of Russia d President of South Africa e President of Sri Lanka 2 Fill in the blanks. a Vladimir Putin was elected as the president of Russia for the term.

b Narendra Modi served as the prime minister of India from to and to 2024.

c Cyril Ramaphosa became the president of South Africa for the first time in the year d Kier Starmer was the from 2020 to 2024. e Anura Kumara Dissanayke is the executive president of Sri Lanka.

3 Write the names of the countries led by the following leaders and the months in which they were appointed to their positions in 2024.

a Narendra Modi b Vladimir Putin c Cyril Ramaphosa d Anura Kumara Dissanayake e Kier Starmer

The leader of a country makes important decisions that affect people’s lives. They are chosen to lead countries. Let us learn about some of the leaders who were elected in the year 2024.

Narendra Modi He became the prime minister of India for the third time in June after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He served as India’s prime minister from 2014 to 2019 and 2019 to 2024.

Vladimir Putin

He became the president of Russia for the fifth term in May after winning the 2024 Russian presidential elections. Previously, he served as Russia’s president from 2000 to 2008 and from 2012 to 2024.

Kier Starmer He became the prime minister of the United Kingdom in July after winning the 2024 UK general elections. He was also the Leader of the Opposition from 2020 to 2024.

Cyril Ramaphosa He was elected the president of South Africa for the second time in June after the South African national elections of 2024. He has served as the president of South Africa since 2018.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake He became the president of Sri Lanka in September 2024 after winning the 2024 Sri Lankan presidential elections. He is the 9th executive president of Sri Lanka.

The leader of a country is responsible for making important decisions that affect the nation’s future. A good leader takes responsibility for his/her actions and sets a good example for others to follow.

21st SKILLS

Themes

The Year Gone By

Earth and Environment

Art and

Creativity

The NEP Tags

The National Education Policy (NEP) outlines essential skills, values, dispositions and learning approaches necessary for learners to thrive in the 21st century. Aware incorporates these elements throughout its content, tasks, and projects. Referred to as ‘NEP Tags,’ they are defined as follows:

21st SKILLS

Bringing creativity and fun into learning by combining music, drama and art

Higher-Order

Thinking

Encouraging higher-order skills such as analyzing, evaluating, problem-solving and fostering deep understanding

Green Living

Unwavering commitment to generating awareness of a green, peaceful and prosperous world

21st–Century Skills

Fostering skills and knowledge—such as critical thinking, communication, and digital literacy—that are essential for success in today’s rapidly changing world

Health and Wellness

Promoting practices that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being for a balanced and healthy lifestyle

Moral and

Values

Building strong character, guiding towards ethical decision making, and developing respect, kindness, and a sense of responsibility

World Leaders, 2024

The leader of a country makes important decisions that affect people’s lives. They are chosen to lead countries. Let us learn about some of the leaders who were elected in the year 2024.

Vladimir Putin

Cyril Ramaphosa

He was elected the president of South Africa for the second time in June after the South African national elections of 2024. He has served as the president of South Africa since 2018.

Narendra Modi

He became the prime minister of India for the third time in June after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He served as India’s prime minister from 2014 to 2019 and 2019 to 2024.

Kier Starmer

He became the prime minister of the United Kingdom in July after winning the 2024 UK general elections. He was also the Leader of the Opposition from 2020 to 2024.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake

He became the president of Sri Lanka in September 2024 after winning the 2024 Sri Lankan presidential elections. He is the 9th executive president of Sri Lanka.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name the leaders.

a Prime Minister of India

b Prime Minister of the UK

c President of Russia

d President of South Africa

e President of Sri Lanka

2 Fill in the blanks.

a Vladimir Putin was elected as the president of Russia for the term.

b Narendra Modi served as the prime minister of India from to and to 2024.

c Cyril Ramaphosa became the president of South Africa for the first time in the year .

d Kier Starmer was the from 2020 to 2024.

e Anura Kumara Dissanayke is the executive president of Sri Lanka.

3 Write the names of the countries led by the following leaders and the months in which they were appointed to their positions in 2024.

Leaders

a Narendra Modi

b Vladimir Putin

c Cyril Ramaphosa

d Anura Kumara Dissanayake

e Kier Starmer

Country Month

Unique Forests

Forests are home to countless plants and animals and are vital for maintaining our planet’s ecological balance. Let us learn about some of the unique forests in the world.

Mangrove Forests

These forests are found along coasts and riverbanks. The trees in these forests grow in salty water and soft soil. They also have strong roots. The Sundarban National Park of India and the Sundarban Forest of Bangladesh together make one of the largest mangrove forests in the world.

These forests grow where there are long, cold, snowy winters and short, cool summers. They are also known as taiga. Coniferous trees like pine, spruce and fir are the most common trees in these forests. These forests grow across northern Europe, Asia and North America.

Underwater Forests

These forests are also known as kelp forests. They are formed mainly by large brown seaweed called kelp. Just like forests on land, these forests offer habitat, food and shelter to a large number of sea organisms. These forests grow in the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern oceans.

Cloud Forests

These forests are also known as tropical montane forests. These forests are very rare and are found only in tropical areas with tall mountains. These forests have heavy rainfall and are found in Africa, Asia and Central and South America.

We should protect and conserve forests for our planet and the future. Forests keep the air clean, support plants and animals and provide resources to people.

Boreal Forests

Practice Time

1 Write the correct locations/forests.

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

a Two regions where boreal forests are found.

b Two regions where cloud forests are found.

c Two regions where underwater forests are found.

d Two forest regions that together make the largest mangrove forest in the world.

2 Fill in the blanks.

a Mangrove forests are found along and .

b Underwater forests are mainly formed by large brown algae called .

c Boreal forests are also known as .

d The trees in mangrove forests have very strong

e are the most common trees found in boreal forests.

f Cloud forests are also known as

Solve the crossword.

Across:

1. The trees in forests grow in salty water and soft soil.

2. forests grow where there are long, cold and snowy winters.

Down:

1. forests are formed mainly by kelp.

2. forests are very rare and are only found in tropical areas. 1 2 1 2

Discoveries and Inventions

The world around us is full of incredible inventions and discoveries that have changed the way we live, work and explore. Let us learn about some of them.

X-ray

The X-ray was discovered in 1895 by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen. An X-ray is an invisible light that can pass through many objects, including human flesh. It is widely used in the medical industry to examine many parts of the body like bones, joints and internal organs.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence is a type of technology that allows machines and computers to think, learn and make decisions like humans. Alan Turing made one of the first computer AI models in 1935. Self-driving cars are an example of AI.

World Wide Web

The World Wide Web (WWW) is a system that allows people to access information on the Internet using websites. It was invented by a British scientist Tim Berners-Lee in 1989.

Sophia - World’s First Citizen Robot

Sophia is an advanced human-like robot. She was created in 2016 by Hanson Robotics, a company based in Hong Kong. She was given citizenship of Saudi Arabia in October 2017.

James Webb Space Telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the most powerful space telescope ever made. It is designed to observe space to the maximum distance and in more detail. It was launched in December 2021 by NASA.

Sit in a group and discuss the AI tools that each of you have used before.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name the following.

a He discovered the X-ray.

b He made the first computer AI model.

c He invented the World Wide Web.

d They created the robot, Sophia.

e They launched the James Webb Space Telescope.

2 Write the correct year.

a The first computer AI model was made.

b The World Wide Web was invented.

c The JWST was launched.

d The robot, Sophia was created.

e The X-ray was discovered.

3 Fill in the blanks.

a X-rays are widely used in the industry.

b is an example of AI.

c AI is a technology that allows and to think, learn and make decisions like humans.

d We access information on the Internet using .

e Sophia was given citizenship of in .

f is the most powerful space telescope ever made.

Heroes of Indian Freedom

India gained its independence from British rule due to the efforts of its brave freedom fighters. Let us learn about them.

Mahatma Gandhi

He was a popular leader of India’s independence struggle. He led important movements like the Salt March and the Quit India Movement. He believed in nonviolence. His birthday, 2 October, is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti.

Subhas Chandra Bose

He was a leader who joined the non-cooperation movement started by Gandhi. He founded the Indian National Army. He is also known as Netaji. His birthday, 23 January, is celebrated as Netaji Jayanti. Tum mujhe khoon do, mein tumhe azadi doonga (‘Give me blood and I will give you freedom’) is a famous declaration by Netaji.

Bhagat Singh

He was a courageous hero of the Indian freedom movement. He began to protest against British rule at a young age and fought for national independence. In his honour, the anniversary of his death, 23 March, has been declared as Shaheed Diwas. He made the slogan, Inquilab Zindabad (Long Live Revolution) popular.

Bipin Chandra Pal

He was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, social reformer and writer. He was one of the key members of the Swadeshi movement that encouraged people to use only Indianmade products. He was also a strong supporter of Swaraj (self-rule) for India.

Lala Lajpat Rai

Lala Lajpat Rai was a writer, politician and a famous leader in India’s struggle for independence. He was known as Punjab Kesari for his acts of protest against the British. Some of his most memorable writings include Unhappy India

Bal Gangadhar Tilak

He was a scholar, teacher and a devoted leader. He played an important role in inspiring the nationalist movement. He earned the title Lokmanya. He also talked about the importance of education and unity among the people of India. ‘Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it’ is a famous statement he made.

Jawaharlal Nehru

He emerged as the leader of the country’s youth during India’s independence movement. He led a historic session at Lahore which declared complete independence as India’s political goal. After independence, he became the first prime minister of India in 1947.

Our freedom fighters fought for our country’s independence. They displayed courage, dedication and patriotism. We should be proud of our country and its history.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Write the titles given to these freedom fighters.

a Bal Gangadhar Tilak

b Lala Lajpat Rai

c Subhas Chandra Bose

2 Which freedom fighter popularised/said these words?

a Inquilab Zindabad.

b Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it.

c Tum mujhe khoon do, mein tumhe azadi doonga.

3 Write the dates of these events.

a Gandhi Jayanti:

b Shaheed Diwas:

c Netaji Jayanti:

4 Which hero of the Indian Freedom Movement am I?

a I became the first Prime Minister of India in 1947.

b I believed in nonviolence.

c My birth anniversary is celebrated as Netaji Jayanti.

d My death anniversary is celebrated as Shaheed Diwas.

e I wrote the book Unhappy India.

f I was one of the key members of the Swadeshi movement.

Countries and Their Capitals

The capital of a country is usually the city that has the greatest political, cultural and historical importance. Let us learn about the capitals of some of the countries from different continents.

Country: United States of America

Capital: Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. was named after George Washington, the first President of the USA. It has many important buildings, including the White House, where the President of the USA lives.

Country: United Kingdom

Capital: London

London has a rich historical and cultural importance. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Tower of London are some of the important places.

Country: Japan

Capital: Tokyo

Tokyo is the largest industrial, commercial and financial centre in Japan. It has many important landmarks, like the Senso-ji temple and the Tokyo Tower.

Country: Egypt

Capital: Cairo

Cairo is located on the banks of the River Nile. It has many important landmarks such as the Citadel of Saladin and the Egyptian Museum.

Country: Brazil

Capital: Brasilia

Brasilia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique architecture. It has many government offices and the official residence of the President of Brazil.

Countries with Multiple Capitals

Some nations have more than one capital.

Country Capitals

Sri Lanka Colombo and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

Netherlands Amsterdam and The Hague

Bolivia La Paz and Sucre

South Africa is the only nation that has 3 capitals–Pretoria, Bloemfontein and Cape Town.

Countries without a Capital

Nauru is the only country in the world without an official capital. It is also the third smallest country in the world.

Use the internet to find two more countries which have two capital cities.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name the capital cities of the following countries.

a United States of America:

b Egypt:

c Brazil:

d United Kingdom:

e Japan:

2 Write the two capitals of each of the following countries.

a Sri Lanka: and

b Bolivia: and

c Netherlands: and

3 Match the monuments and the cities they are located in.

a Senso-ji Temple Washington D.C.

b Egyptian Museum Tokyo

c Big Ben Cairo

d White House London

4 Name the country.

a It is the only country in the world with three capitals. It is the only nation without an official capital.

c It is a country whose capital is a World Heritage Site with unique architecture.

d It is a country whose capital is its largest industrial, commercial and financial center.

Hockey in India 6

Hockey is a popular sport in India. It is played by two teams of 11 players each. The players use J-shaped sticks to hit the ball into the opposite team’s goal.

National Hockey Teams of India

• Men’s team

• Women’s team

• Junior men’s team

• Junior women’s team

A Golden Era in Hockey

From 1928 to 1956, the Indian men’s hockey team won six consecutive gold medals at the Olympics.

The Indian Hockey Team, 1948

Busting the Myth

Due to hockey’s popularity, many people regard it as India’s national sport. However, this is a myth.

In 2012, the Sports Ministry undersecretary Shiv Pratap Singh Tomar clarified that there is no record from the ministry that hockey, or any other sport is our national game.

Major Dhyan Chand is known as the Wizard of Indian Hockey. He was a three-time Olympic gold medallist. On 29 August every year, his birthday is celebrated as the National Sports Day.

The Men’s National Hockey Team

Some International Achievements

• It is the most successful team in the Olympics with 8 gold, 1 silver and 4 bronze medals.

• They have won medals in many other events:

- World Cup: Gold in 1975, silver in 1973 and bronze in 1971

- Asian Games: 4 gold, 9 silver and 3 bronze medals

- Asia Cup: 3 gold, 5 silver and 2 bronze medals

- Asian Champions Trophy: 5 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze medal

The Women’s National Hockey Team

Some International Achievements

• The women’s team represented India for the first time at the Olympics in 1980.

• The team has won medals at many events:

- Asian Games: 1 gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze medals

- Asia Cup: 2 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze medals

- Asian Champions Trophy: 2 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze medal.

Hockey is a high-energy sport that needs players to constantly move. It improves physical health and enhances the balance and coordination of a player.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Answer the following correctly.

a The number of players in a hockey team:

b The number of Indian hockey teams:

c The shape of a hockey stick is like this letter:

d The years during which the men’s national hockey team won consecutive Olympic gold medals:

e The number of times Major Dhyan Chand won Olympic gold medals:

f The number of Olympic gold medals won by the men’s national hockey team:

2 Fill in the blanks.

a Major Dhyan Chand is known as the of Indian hockey.

b The Indian men's hockey team won consecutive gold medals at the Olympics.

c In World Cup, the Indian men's hockey team won gold in , silver in and bronze medals in 1971.

d The Indian women's hockey team represented India at the Olympics for the first time in the year .

3 HOTS Write down the number of medals won by the Indian hockey teams in the given tournaments.

a Asian Games

b Asia Cup

c Asian Champions Trophy

First-Aid Emergencies

First aid is the quick care given to an ill or injured person. First aid prevents an illness, injury or accident from becoming worse. Let us learn about the first aid for a few such injuries.

Bleeding

Bleeding means the injured person is losing blood, usually, due to a cut, wound or injury. Follow these steps to give firstaid so that minor bleeding stops:

1. Cover the cut area with a clean cloth, Apply slight pressure on it to stop the bleeding.

2. Clean the cut with water.

3. After the bleeding stops, apply an antiseptic ointment on the cut.

Burns

4. Cover the cut with a bandage. Change the bandage every day to avoid infection.

1. Cool the burn and run tap water over the burnt area for several minutes.

Note: Visit a doctor if the cut continues to bleed, is deep or shows any signs of infection.

2. Use cooling gels or soothing lotions with aloe vera.

Follow these first-aid steps in case of a minor burn from fire, hot liquid or steam:

3. Cover the burn with a thin gauze bandage. Use a cold compress pack for relief. Do not use ice cubes directly on the burn.

Bee Sting

Note: pop a blister if it appears on the burn.

In case of bee stings, we should follow these first-aid steps:

1. Remove the stinger by gently sliding your fingernail across it, instead of pulling it out directly.

2. Wash the area with running water and soap.

3. If there is swelling, use a cold pack to reduce it. Apply an anti-allergy ointment for bee stings.

Note: Seek medical help if you feel swelling in your mouth or experience other allergic reactions.

First aid is important for helping in emergencies when help takes time to arrive during accidents or disasters. Remember to stay calm and act responsibly.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Number the steps of first aid (1–4) for minor burns, in the correct order.

a Cover the burn with a thin gauze bandage.

b Wash with running water.

c Apply a cooling gel.

d Use a cold compress pack.

2 Number the steps of first aid (1–4) for minor bleeding, in the correct order.

a Cover the cut with a bandage.

b Cover the cut with a clean cloth.

c Apply an ointment.

d Wash the cut under water.

3 Number the steps of first aid (1–4) for bee sting, in the correct order.

a Wash the area with soap and water. b Remove the stinger.

c Apply an anti-allergy ointment. d Apply a cold pack.

Write if the first-aid step is a Do or Don’t in these medical emergencies.

a Apply pressure using a clean cloth on the cut to stop bleeding.

b Change the bandage every day in case of bleeding or a wound.

c Ignore swelling in the mouth and throat in case of a bee sting.

d Visit a doctor in case the bleeding continues.

e Pop any blisters that appear after a burn.

f Put ice cubes directly on the burnt area of the skin.

g Pull out the stinger directly.

Calamities of 2024

Natural calamities are terrible events. They cause a lot of damage to plants, animals, buildings and people. Many natural calamities occurred in 2024.

Noto Peninsula Earthquake

On 1 January 2024, an earthquake occurred in the Noto Peninsula, a place in Japan. It was of 7.5 magnitude. It led to the deaths of almost 300 people and injured 1200 people. It was the deadliest earthquake in Japan since 2011.

Hurricane Beryl

On 1 July 2024, a very strong, storm named Hurricane Beryl, hit Grenada. Over the next few days, it also hit other countries like Venezuela and Mexico. It caused damages worth billions of US dollars. The strong winds, at 150km/h, tore roofs from buildings, uprooted trees and ruined the islands.

Typhoon Yagi

In September 2024, a very strong storm, named Typhoon Yagi, hit the southern part of China. Over the next few days, it also hit Vietnam and Myanmar. It was one of the deadliest storms to ever hit the south-east Asian region. It resulted in destructive winds and heavy rains.

Wayanad Landslides

In July-August 2024, many landslides happened in the Wayanad district of Kerala. They were caused by heavy rains which made hillsides collapse and resulted in mud, water and rocks crashing down. It was a terrible disaster and many people lost their lives.

By practising sustainable living, we can reduce the risk and impact of disasters. This means using resources wisely, reducing waste and protecting natural habitats.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Write the correct date/month in which these disasters happened.

a Noto Peninsula Earthquake

b Hurricane Beryl

c Wayanad Landslides

d Typhoon Yagi

2 Fill in the blanks.

a hit Grenada, Venezuela and Mexico and caused damages worth billions of dollars.

b On 1 January 2024, an occurred in the Noto Peninsula in Japan.

c A series of happened in Wayanad in July-August 2024.

d was one of the deadliest storms ever to hit the south-east Asian region.

e The Noto Peninsula earthquake was of magnitude.

Tick ( ) the things that happen during a disaster.

a Stable internet and phone networks

b Loss of lives

c Safe transportation

d Buildings get damaged

e Supply of electricity stops

f Trees are uprooted

Animals of the Tropical Rainforest

Tropical rainforests are dense forests that are warm and receive a large amount of rainfall. They are home to a large variety of animals and birds.

Sloths are found mostly in the rainforests of Central and South America. They live in trees. They have curved claws that are four inches long which enable them to hold onto branches and hang from the trees. They spend 15 to 20 hours per day sleeping.

Toucans are found in the rainforests of America. They spend most of their time nesting high in the forests. They take shelter in hollowed-out trees. Toucans have large bills that can be four times the size of their head!

Poison dart frogs are found in the rainforests of Central and South America. They are small frogs with brightlycoloured bodies. Their skin is poisonous! The golden poison frog is the most poisonous of all. This frog has enough poison to kill about 20,000 mice.

Orangutans are redhaired apes that live in the tropical rainforests on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo. They can weigh up to 100 kg which makes them the heaviest tree-dwelling animals. They have extremely long arms.

Okapi are found mainly in the Rainforest of Ituri in the, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa.

Although they have stripes like a zebra on their legs and a body like a horse, they actually belong to the giraffe family. The tongue of an okapi is long enough to clean its eyelids, ears and even its neck.

Boa constrictors are large rainforest snakes, found mainly in Central and South America. The anaconda, a member of the boa family, can grow as long as 9 metres! They are non-venomous. Boa constrictors give birth to babies, unlike other snakes that lay eggs.

Tropical rainforests once covered about 14% of the Earth’s surface, but now they only cover around 6%. They are being destroyed at an alarming rate. It is important to make efforts to save the rainforests in order to protect the environment.

Practice Time

1 Fill in the box with the correct number.

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

a Sloths have claws that are inches long.

b Anacondas can grow as big as metres.

c The golden poison frog has enough poison to kill about mice.

d The bills of toucans can be times the size of their heads.

2 Where do I live?

a Orangutans are found in the rainforests of .

b Toucans are found mostly in the rainforests of .

c Sloths are found mostly in the the rainforests of .

d Okapi are found in the rainforest of .

3 Complete the sentences.

a Other snakes lay eggs, while boa constrictors

b The long claws of sloths help them to

c The long tongues of the okapi help them to

4 HOTS Read the features. Then, write the names of the animals.

a It is a slow-moving animal that spends most of its time clinging to trees:

b It is the most poisonous frog:

c They have stripes like a zebra on their legs and a body like a horse.

d They are the heaviest tree-dwelling apes:

e They are birds with large, colourful bills:

Smart Devices

Smart devices are devices that can connect to other devices and the Internet using technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Smartphones

A smartphone is a device that combines a mobile phone with the features of a computer. We can carry it around and use its many features. It allows us to call, take pictures, send emails and messages, etc.

The first smartphone was designed by International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) and sold by BellSouth in 1993.

Smartwatches

Smartwatches are small, wearable computers. They have features like calling and sending emails. They can even track our footsteps and heartbeats! Some smartwatches need to be connected to a smartphone.

In the 1980s, Seiko was one of the first companies to introduce watches with computer-like features.

Smart TV

These TVs can connect to the internet and show online content from platforms, such as YouTube, on their screens. Some smart TVs also have cameras that allow us to video chat.

Samsung and LG were among the companies that started making smart TVs in the late 2000s.

Smart Refrigerator

A smart refrigerator knows what is inside it and can also remind us when we are running out of food or when it is going bad. Some of them can be controlled by smartphones and some have cameras that show what is in the refrigerator.

In June 2000, LG launched the first refrigerator that could connect to the internet.

Smart Speakers

Smart speakers are devices that can talk to us and perform tasks when we give them commands, such as playing music or answering our questions. These devices use a voice assistant.

The smart speaker revolution began in 2014 when Amazon introduced the Amazon Echo featuring its voice assistant, Alexa.

Smart devices are changing the way we live, making things more convenient, entertaining, and connected.

Practice Time

1 Fill in the blanks.

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

a The Amazon Echo is an example of a . b designed the first smartphone in 1993.

c LG launched the first which could connect to the internet.

d introduced watches with computer-like features in the 1980s.

e The creation of was started in the late 2000s by companies like Samsung and LG.

2 Match the following.

a Smart refrigerator Seiko

b Smartphone LG

c Smartwatch IBM

3 Read the following features and name the smart devices.

a We can track our heartbeats when we wear this smart device.

b This smart device combines a mobile phone with the features of a computer.

c This smart device talks to us and can play music at our command.

d This smart device knows what’s kept inside it and informs us when those things get spoilt.

Old Cities, New Names 11

In India, many old cities have been renamed, but the vibrant lives of these cities remain the same. Let’s learn about them.

City: Prayagraj

Old name: Allahabad

Prayagraj in Uttar

Pradesh is a city of religious importance. The city is the meeting point of three rivers— the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. The city’s name officially became Prayagraj on 16 October, 2018.

City: Kolkata

Old name: Calcutta

Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal. It has a rich heritage of literature, art, music and theatre. It is famous for the the Howrah Bridge and the Victoria Memorial. The city’s name officially became Kolkata in January 2001, to match its Bengali pronunciation.

City: Kochi

Old name: Cochin

Kochi is a major port city of Kerala. It is known as the Spice Capital of the World. The city was renamed Kochi in 1996, to bring the name closer to its original Malayalam name. Kochi means a small lagoon.

City: Gurugram

Old name: Gurgaon

Gurugram in Haryana is one of India’s information technology and banking hubs. It is often called the Millennium City of India. The city’s name officially became Gurugram on 27 September 2016 in honour of its mythological relation to Guru Dronacharya.

City: Mumbai

Old name: Bombay

Mumbai is the capital city of Maharashtra. It is also called the business capital of India. The city is known for landmarks like the Gateway of India and the Marine Drive. The city’s name officially became Mumbai in 1995, in honour of the goddess of the region, Mumbadevi.

City: Chennai

Old name: Madras

Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu. It is known as the Detroit of India, as it is the hub of the automobile industry. Its Marina Beach is the longest urban beach in India. The city’s name officially became Chennai on 17 July, 1996.

There are many other cities in India whose names have been changed. Use the internet to find out the names of any three such cities.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 What were the old names of the given cities?

a Kolkata

c Prayagraj

e Kochi

2 Name the city.

a Detroit of India:

b Millennium City of India:

c Business capital of India:

d Spice capital of the world:

e A major port city in Kerala:

f The city where the three riversGanga, Yamuna and Saraswati meet:

b Chennai

d Gurugram

f Mumbai

3 In which cities are these landmarks located? Write the new city names.

a Marina Beach

b Howrah Bridge

4 Neharika wants to visit Mumbai. She asks you to suggest places she should visit. Name three places that you would suggest to her.

7 New Wonders of the World

On 7-07-2007, the New 7 Wonders Foundation (now an official partner of the UN) declared the new 7 wonders of the world. These wonders were chosen by the votes of more than 10 crore people across the world.

The Taj Mahal Agra, India

It is made of white marble and is located on the banks of the River Yamuna. The main structure has four pillars (minars) around it. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

The Great Wall of China China

This 21,196-km-long wall is one of the largest buildingconstruction projects in the world. It spreads from the eastern seaside to the western desert in northern China. The first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, ordered its construction to protect his people from nomads.

Machu Picchu

Andes mountains, Peru

It is a ruined, stone city of the Inca Empire. It was hidden in the middle of a mountain forest. Archaeologist, Hiram Bingham, found it in 1911. Thus, it is also called The Lost City of the Incas.

The Colosseum

Rome, Italy

It is the largest amphitheatre ever built. It could host about 50,000 people at once. It was built by the Romans as an entertainment venue and for hosting human fights and animal hunts.

Christ the Redeemer

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This 30-m-tall statue of Jesus Christ with open arms stands on top of Corcovado Mountain. It was viewed as a symbol of hope and peace for the people after World War I.

Chichén Itzá

Yucatán State, Mexico

It is the site of a ruined ancient Mayan city. It is most popular for its temple pyramid. The pyramid has 365 steps, for each day of a year. The complex also has the Temple of Warriors.

Petra

Petra, Jordan

It is a ruined city of an ancient Arab kingdom, located in a distant valley and surrounded by mountains. It is half-built and halfcarved into the rocks. It is also known as the RedRose City because of the colour of its rocks.

All monuments are an important part of our cultural heritage. We should protect them from damage and conserve them.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 In which cities are these new wonders located?

a Taj Mahal b Colosseum

c Christ the Redeemer

2 In which countries are these new wonders located?

a Chichén Itzá b Machu Picchu

c Petra

3 Fill in the blanks with the correct names of the wonders of the world.

a is a 30-metre-tall statue.

b has a famous temple pyramid.

c is the largest amphitheatre ever built.

d is the longest of all the new seven wonders of the world.

e was part of an Arab kingdom.

f was built by an emperor in memory of his late wife.

g is a ruined stone city in the middle of the forest.

4 Who am I?

a I am known as The Lost City, as I was found in the year 1911.

b The rose colour of my rocks gave me the name, The Red-Rose City.

c I gave hope to people after a time of chaos during World War 1.

Renowned Filmmakers

Films help us see and understand different people, places and stories. Many filmmakers from different parts of the world have inspired us with their films. Let us learn about some of them.

Asia

Europe

Satyajit Ray was an Indian filmmaker known for depicting intense emotions and social issues in his films. He received an Honorary Oscar in 1992 for his lifetime achievements and contribution to world cinema.

Major Films: Pather Panchali and Aparajito

North America

Quentin Tarantino is an American filmmaker and a two-time Oscar winner. His films are known for their sharp dialogue and complex stories.

Major Films: Pulp Fiction and Django Unchained

Africa

Haile Gerima is an Ethiopian filmmaker known for showing social realities of Black communities in his films. He has been a film professor at Howard University since 1975.

Major Films: Sankofa and Bush Mama

Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne are brothers from Belgium known for depicting strong emotions in their films. They made a lot of films on working-class themes and characters.

Major Films: The Child and Two Days, One Night South America

Fernando Meirelles is a Brazilian filmmaker known for his captivating films. His films touch upon different social issues and have received international acclaim.

Major Films: City of God and Blindness

Oceania

Jane Campion is a filmmaker from New Zealand, known for having great visual effects and strong emotions in her films. She won the Oscar for Best Director in 2022 for the film, The Power of the Dog

Major Films: The Piano and Bright Star

Films have a unique power to reach audiences on an emotional level. Through relatable characters and storytelling, they can highlight the importance of virtues like honesty and courage.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name any two films made by each of the following filmmakers.

Filmmakers

a Quentin Tarantino

b Haile Gerima

c Jane Campion

d Satyajit Ray

Films

2 Sort the given filmmakers based on the parts of the world they come from.

Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne Jane Campion Haile Gerima

Fernando Meirelles Satyajit Ray Quentin Tarantino

a Asia

b Europe

c Africa

3 Which filmmaker am I?

d North America

e South America

f Oceania

a I am Ethiopian and I am known for films that depict realities of Black communities.

b I am from New Zealand and I am known for films which have great visual effects.

c I am American and I am known for films that have sharp dialogue and complex stories.

d We are brothers from Belgium known for depicting strong emotions in films.

e I am the only Indian director to receive an Honorary Oscar in 1992.

Kitchen Gardening

Kitchen gardening means growing food—fruit and vegetables in a small space —mostly for the everyday use of a family. One can grow a kitchen garden in any available space at home, like on the balcony, in a backyard or on a roof.

Grow Your Kitchen Garden

1. Choose a spot and decide the layout. Choose a spot in the backyard or balcony with enough sunlight for plant growth and decide the size of the kitchen garden.

4. Water the plants. Water the plants regularly according to their need. Avoid overwatering the plants.

2. Prepare the soil. Use nutrientrich soil for better plant growth. You can also add manure to it. Remove the stones and hard soil from the pot or patch.

5. Maintain plant health. Check the plants regularly to see if they are growing well or have pests. Check for weeds and remove them.

3. Seeds or seedlings. Gently, sow the seeds in the soil. We can buy seedlings from a nursery. We should plant seeds which grow best during the season when we are sowing.

6. Wait and harvest. The seeds take time to grow into fruit, leaves or vegetables. Gently harvest the fruit, leaves and vegetables. Avoid any damage to the plants.

Importance of a Kitchen Garden Things We Can Grow

y The food grown in a kitchen garden is much healthier than the food we buy from the market.

y A kitchen garden provides us with naturally grown food, free from any chemicals.

y It helps us to save money and utilise the free space in and around our house.

y We can grow many vegetables like lady finger, chilies, spinach and spring onions.

y We can grow fruit like tomatoes, strawberries, lemons and blueberries.

y We can also grow herbs like mint, coriander, basil and rosemary.

Growing food at home fosters healthy eating habits. Fresh, home-grown fruit and vegetables are nutritious and free from harmful chemicals, thus promoting good health and well-being.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name any four vegetables, herbs or fruit that we can grow in a kitchen garden.

Number the steps of kitchen gardening (1-4) in the correct order.

a Sow the seeds or seedlings. b Water the plants and check them regularly.

c Harvest the final produce. d Choose a spot for the kitchen garden.

3 Write whether the step is a Do or Don’t when growing a kitchen garden.

a We should select a place where there is enough sunlight.

b We should remove stones and hard soil before sowing seeds.

c We should not consider the seasons when selecting seeds.

d We should not add manure to the soil.

e We can buy seeds from a nursery.

f We should avoid overwatering the plants.

g We should not remove the weeds from the soil.

h We should damage the plants while harvesting.

Banks and Their Uses

A bank is a place that keeps and manages people’s money, with permission from the government.

What is a bank?

A bank is an institution where money is kept and managed. We need to open an account with the bank. When we open a bank account, we get an account number.

Depositing and Withdrawing Money

When we put money into our bank account, it is called depositing money. It could be through cash, cheque or electronic transfer. We can take money out of our bank account as well to pay bills, shop or to pay other expenses. When we take our money out of the bank, it is called withdrawing money.

Lending Money

We need money for different things in our lives. When people buy a car, a house or set up their own business, they need a lot of money. In such cases, people can take a loan from the bank. Taking a loan, means borrowing money from the bank with an agreement to return it later.

Keeping Valuables Safe

Banks have lockers. These lockers are in a secure room. Only the person who owns the locker can open it with their key. People keep valuable items, like jewellery and important documents, in their locker to keep them safe.

Importance of Banks for the Nation

Having a good banking system is very important for a country. Banks help businesses function and create jobs. They help regulate the flow of money.

With the help of your parents, find out about the different steps to open a bank account.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Choose the correct word from the brackets and fill in the blanks.

a A bank is a place where people can keep their . (clothes/money)

b We can put our money in a account. (bank/shop)

c Putting money in a bank is called money. (spending/depositing)

d Taking out our money from the bank is called money. (withdrawing/saving)

e When banks lend money to people, it is called a . (gift/loan)

f A in a bank is where people can keep their gold. (locker/drawer)

2 Write True or False.

a A bank is not a safe place to keep our money.

b We can put our money in a bank through cash or a cheque.

c Banks can gift people money on special occasions like their birthdays.

d People can also safely keep their important papers in a bank.

3 Write the correct reasons.

a People may need to borrow money from a bank for: , ,

b Banks are important because they: create , and help the

4 Help Rajiv, a businessman, reach the bank quickly as he has to take a loan for his new project.

India in Sports, 2024

In 2024, India took part in many sports events and had amazing performances, winning several important competitions around the world. Let’s take a look at some of India’s achievements in sports this year!

Olympics, 2024

India won six medals at the 2024 Olympics, including one silver and five bronze medals. This event was held in Paris, France from 26 July 2024 to 11 August 2024. A total of 117 athletes represented India in 16 sports. India won medals in shooting, athletics, hockey and wrestling.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, 2024

India won the ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. They beat South Africa in the finals. This event was held in the United States of America and the West Indies from 1 to 29 June. This is India’s second T20 World Cup title.

Paralympics, 2024

India won 29 medals at the 2024 Paralympics, including seven gold, nine silver and thirteen bronze medals. This event was held in Paris, France from 28 August 2024 to 8 September 2024. This is India’s best performance in the history of the Paralympic games. India won medals in shooting, athletics, badminton, archery and judo.

FIDE Chess Olympiad, 2024

India won in both the open and women’s categories at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad. This event was held in Budapest, Hungary from 10 to 23 September 2024. This is India’s firstever win in the Chess Olympiad in both the categories. India is the third country to win in both categories in the same year.

Teamwork in sports has played a key role in helping India win many competitions. When team members work together, they support each other, learn from each other and make the team stronger.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Write down the dates and the places where these events took place in 2024.

Event

a Olympics

b Paralympics

c ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

d FIDE Chess Olympiad

2 Fill in the blanks.

Date

Place

a India won medals at the 2024 Olympics.

b athletes represented India at the 2024 Olympics.

c India won medals including gold, silver and 13 bronze at the 2024 Paralympics.

d India won the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup by beating in the finals.

e India won in both and categories at the 2024 FIDE Chess Olympiad.

f India is the country to win in both the open and women’s categories at the FIDE Chess Olympiad in the same year.

3 HOTS Tick ( ) the sports in which India won medals at the 2024 Olympics.

a Wrestling b Archery c Shooting d Hockey e Athletics f Swimming

Underwater Wonders

The ocean is home to many plants and animals, but there is more! The world under the ocean is also full of wonderful sites.

Great Barrier Reef

Location: Northeast coast of Australia

Ocean: Pacific Ocean

This site has the world’s largest coral reef with around 400 types of coral and 1,500 species of fish. It is even visible from space. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. Turtles, whales and clownfish are some of the sea animals found here.

Mariana Trench

Location: Close to the Mariana Islands

Ocean: Pacific Ocean

The Mariana Trench has the Challenger Deep, the deepest point on Earth. It is around 11 km deep, about 2,500 km long and 70 km wide. It is very dark and cold in the trench. The pressure is extremely high. However, we can still find some deep-sea animals, like snailfish, in the trench.

Mid-Atlantic Ridge

Location: From the south of the North Pole to Bouvet Island

Ocean: Atlantic Ocean

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is an underwater mountain range discovered in the 1950s. It covers around 16,000 km. There are many active volcanoes beneath the ridge. A short stretch of the ridge above the surface also makes up islands like Iceland and the Azores.

Sistema Sac Actun

Location: In the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Ocean: Near the Caribbean Sea, Atlantic Ocean

It is the longest underwater cave system in the world. The length (as measured until 2024) is over 371 km. It has around 226 entrances, hidden chambers, crystal-clear waters and unique wildlife, like the blind cave fish, which are a treat for explorers.

Wonders of the ocean such as the Great Barrier Reef are being severely affected by global warming and pollution. We must work towards reducing global warming and oceanic pollution in order to keep our oceans beautiful and clean.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 In which oceans are these wonders located?

a Mariana Trench

b Mid-Atlantic Ridge

c Great Barrier Reef

d Sistema Sac Actun

2 Which country or island is closest to these underwater wonders?

a Great Barrier Reef

b Mariana Trench

c Sistema Sac Actun

3 Write the correct measure of the following with units.

a Length of Sistema Sac Actun:

b Length of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge:

c Depth of the Challenger Deep:

Which underwater wonder is it?

a It is the deepest point on Earth.

b It is an underwater mountain range in the Atlantic Ocean.

c It is the world’s longest underwater cave system.

d It is the world’s largest coral reef.

Space Gadgets and Tools

Astronauts use a variety of gadgets and tools in space. These tools provide life-support, help to repair and maintain spacecraft, and help to do advanced research. Let us learn about some of these tools.

Space Suits

A spacesuit is a special outfit that astronauts wear when they go outside in space. It has features to support their life in space. Here are some of the reasons why astronauts need a spacesuit:

• It provides the astronauts with a supply of oxygen to breathe.

• It has many layers to protect the astronauts from heat, cold and harmful rays in space.

• It protects them from being injured by space dust.

• Spacesuits have a communication cap under the helmet that helps the astronauts to connect with other crew members.

Space Telescopes

A space telescope or a space observatory is a telescope in outer space used to observe and take pictures of the objects in space.

The Hubble space telescope was launched in 1990 by NASA. Since then, it has taken more than 1.5 million pictures of some of the most distant stars and galaxies, as well as the planets.

A rover is a vehicle that moves around on a planet or a moon to explore, take pictures and collect information.

• India’s third moon mission, Chandrayaan -3, was launched on 14 July 2023, with a rover named Pragyan.

Artificial Satellites

Artificial Satellites are objects that travel around Earth or other larger objects in space. They help scientists study space by gathering data about the stars, planets and other objects. They are used for many purposes such as predicting the weather, enabling communications and GPS navigations.

• NASA’s Mars exploration rover, Curiosity, was launched on 26 November 2011. It landed on Mars on 6 August 2012.

Use the internet to find out about the first artificial satellite of India and when it was launched.

Rover

Curiosity Rover Pragyan Rover

The Hubble Space Telescope

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Write the correct dates.

a The launch date of Curiosity rover:

b The launch date of Chandrayaan-3:

c The launch year of the Hubble Space Telescope:

d Landing date of Curiosity rover on Mars:

2 Fill in the blanks.

a Space suits have under the helmet that helps astronauts to connect with other crew members.

b Space suits protect astronauts from harmful in space.

c Artificial satellites gather data about , and other space objects.

d A space telescope is also called a .

e The Hubble space telescope was launched by in 1990.

Which space gadget/tool am I?

a I am the rover of Chandrayaan-3.

b I have taken over 1.5 million pictures of distant stars and galaxies since I was launched.

c I travel around Earth and other larger objects in space.

d I protect astronauts from the heat, cold and harmful rays in space.

e I move on the surface of a planet or a moon to collect information.

Occupations in India 19

India has diverse occupations, ranging from traditional agricultural practices to modern, high-tech industries.

Agriculture

Agriculture is the largest occupation in India. Almost half of India’s population works in the agriculture sector.

IT and Software Sector

The Information Technology (IT) and software sector is growing rapidly in India. It plays a huge role in creating jobs for engineers, software developers and data scientists. Cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai are major IT hubs.

Service Sector

People involved in the service sector do jobs that help other people.

Occupations like doctors, nurses, teachers, bankers, plumbers, electricians, drivers and bus conductors fall under the service sector.

Dairy Farming

India is the world’s largest producer of milk, which is why dairy farming is an important occupation in the country.

Manufacturing Industry

Many people in India work in manufacturing industries to produce goods, including iron and steel, food, textile, automobile, cement, chemicals, electronics and medicine manufacturing.

Film Industry

India has a large film industry which produces movies in many languages. It employs several actors, directors, producers, makeup artists, costume designers and technicians in the process of making films.

Traditional Occupations

Weaving, pottery, carpentry, metal carving, stone carving, wood carving, puppetry and bamboo crafts are some of the traditional jobs done in many parts of India.

What is your parents’ occupation? Which sector does their occupation belong to? Discuss with your classmates.

Practice Time

1 Fill in the correct answer.

a The largest occupation in India:

b A bank cashier is a part of this sector:

c India is the largest producer of this dairy product in the world:

d This industry creates jobs for engineers and data scientists:

2 Name three cities that are hubs of the IT and software sector in India. , ,

Match the occupations and the sectors they belong to.

a Service Sector

b Manufacturing Industry

c Traditional Occupations

d Agriculture

International Flags

Each country of the world has a flag. The flag’s colour, shape and symbols usually represent the history, land, culture, uniqueness and goals of the country it belongs to.

India

The Indian flag is a tricolour flag, also called the Tiranga, with three horizontal bands of saffron, white and green, respectively. Each colour represents something about India—saffron symbolizes strength and courage, white symbolizes peace and truth, and green shows the fertility, growth and richness of the land. At the centre of the white band, there is a navy blue Ashoka Chakra with 24 spokes representing continuous movement and progress throughout the 24 hours of the day.

India

Denmark

This is the oldest , continuously used national flag in the world! It’s believed that the flag itself fell from the sky in 1219. But its current design was adopted in 1625. The red background represents the battles that the Danish people fought and the white stripes represent their religious faith.

Nepal

This is the only flag in the world that is not rectangular or square. Instead, it has two triangles. They represent the Himalayan Mountains and the two major religions of the country—Hinduism and Buddhism. The symbols of the sun and moon signify the hope that Nepal will stand as long as the sun and the moon are shining.

Flags of some countries that look alike

There are only two countries in the world that have square flags.

Flags of some countries are almost identical except for the differences in their sizes and colours.

The flags of some countries may look alike but the meaning of the symbols differ. Japan is known as the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’. The sun is represented by the red circle in the middle of the flag. This flag is commonly called the Hinomaru meaning ‘Ball of the Sun’.

Just like Japan, the flag of Bangladesh also has a bright red circle in the middle. It has two meanings: 1. The rising sun of a new country; 2. The blood of the people who fought for the country’s independence. The dark-green background of the flag represents the lush vegetation of the land of Bangladesh.

A country’s flag is an important national symbol. We should take pride in our country’s flag and respect it.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Look at the flags and name the countries they belong to.

2 Name the countries that have flags with similarities.

a Both the flags have a square shape: and

b Both the flags have red and white horizontal bands in reverse: and

c Both the flags have a red circle in the middle, representing the sun: and

3 Read the features of the flags and name the countries they belong to.

a It has a white cross in the middle of a red square background.

b It has two triangles stacked on top of each other.

c It has a red circle on a dark-green background.

d This tricolour flag is also known as the Tiranga.

e It is popularly known as the Hinomaru.

f It is the oldest, continuously used national flag in the world.

Sports Stadiums

A stadium is a closed area that has rows of seats and is used for events like sports, concerts and exhibitions. Let us learn about some amazing sports stadiums around the world.

Narendra Modi Stadium in Gujarat, India, is the world’s largest stadium by area. It is built on 63 acres of land and has a capacity to host more than 1.3 lakh people. Inaugurated in February 2021, it is the biggest cricket venue ever built.

The Panathenaic Stadium is a historical stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It is located in Athens, Greece. It is the only stadium in the world made completely of marble.

Ohio Football Stadium in Columbus, USA is known as the Horseshoe Stadium because of its unique shape. It is the fifth largest stadium in the world by capacity.

Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, in Pyongyang, North Korea, is the biggest stadium in the world by capacity. It can host more than 1.5 lakh people. It is mainly used for football but is also designed to host many other sports, such as athletics. It is shaped like an open parachute.

The Float at Marina Bay in Singapore is the world’s first and largest floating stadium. It has mainly hosted football matches. The floating platform is made of steel.

Docklands Stadium in Melbourne, Australia is the only stadium in the world with a removable roof. It is also known as the Marvel Stadium.

Use the internet to find the oldest stadium in India.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Write the country in which these stadiums are located.

a The Panathenaic Stadium:

b Ohio Football Stadium:

c Narendra Modi Stadium:

d Docklands Stadium:

e The Float at Marina Bay:

f Rungrado 1st of May Stadium:

Read the features and name the stadiums.

a The stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games:

b The only stadium in the world with a removable roof:

c The largest cricket stadium in the world:

d The stadium that is shaped like a horseshoe:

e The world’s biggest stadium by capacity:

f The world’s first and the largest floating stadium:

3 Fill in the blanks.

a Docklands Stadium is also called the Stadium.

b The world’s largest stadium by capacity can host more than people.

c The world’s largest stadium by area is built on of land.

d The Panathenaic Stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in .

e Stadium is also called the Horseshoe Stadium because of its shape.

f Rungrado 1st of May Stadium is shaped like an open .

Languages around the World

There are about 7,000 spoken languages around the world and about 300 systems are used to write them. Let us find out more about some of the most widely spoken languages in the world.

The English language originated in England and consists of 26 letters of the alphabet. As of 2024, English is the most widely spoken language in the world. It is the dominant language in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand. English is the preferred foreign language in many countries around the world.

Mandarin Chinese is the official language of one of the most populous countries in the world, China. It makes Mandarin Chinese the second-most spoken language in the world. It is considered one of the most difficult languages as it contains 50,000 different characters.

Spanish is considered a beautiful language. The Spanish alphabet consists of 27 letters. Like many other languages, Spanish has taken over words from different languages such as Latin and Arabic. Spanish is widely spoken in Spain and the Americas.

There are 26 letters in the French alphabet, the same as in English. French is also the official language of more than 25 countries, such as Canada, Belgium and Switzerland.

Portuguese is not just the official language of Portugal and Brazil but of many other nations, such as Angola, Cape Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Macau and East Timor. About 270 million people around the world speak this language.

The Hindi alphabet has 11 vowels and 35 consonants based on the pronunciation. It is one of the official languages of India. Hindi is spoken as the first language by nearly 425 million people and as a second language by some 120 million more. Hindi is mostly spoken in India and Nepal.

Arabic originated from the Arabian Peninsula and has 28 letters in its alphabet. It is widely spoken among people in North African and Middle Eastern countries. About 375 million people around the world are native Arabic speakers. It is considered as an important language by Muslims because the holy book, the Quran, is written in Arabic.

German is the official language of both Germany and Austria. It is also one of the official languages of Switzerland. It is the native language of more than 100 million speakers. Many people around the world study it as a foreign language. The German alphabet has 26 letters.

Languages also need to be preserved and protected. It is very important for us to know our mother language. Use the internet to find which day is celebrated as International Mother Language Day.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name a country where these languages are spoken.

a French:

b English:

c Arabic:

d German:

e Hindi:

f Spanish:

2 Write True or False.

a French is one of the official languages of Switzerland.

b The Quran was originally written in English.

c Mandarin Chinese is the most spoken language in the world.

d Portuguese is the official language of Brazil.

e Spanish is widely spoken in North and South America.

3 Read the statements and name the languages.

a It is the official language of more than 25 countries.

b The alphabet consists of 27 letters.

c As of 2024, is the most widely spoken language in the world.

d It is one of the official languages of India.

e It is the official language of Austria.

f It is widely spoken in Middle Eastern countries.

Indian Satellites, 2024

Satellites are objects that orbit a planet or a star in space. Satellites give us information from space that we can’t get on the ground. India has launched many satellites for discoveries and other purposes. Let us learn about some of the satellites India launched in 2024.

XPoSat Satellite

XPoSat is a space observatory satellite.It was launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 1 January 2024, using a spacecraft, PSLV-C58.

This satellite helps ISRO study the x-rays emitted by stars and other celestial bodies. It carries a special machine, POLIX, which measures the direction and amount of rays emitted by the space objects. The POLIX was developed by the Raman Research Institute (RRI) and the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC).

INSAT-3DS Satellite

INSAT-3DS is a weather satellite that orbits Earth. It was launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 17 February 2024, using a spacecraft, GSLV-F14.

This satellite helps to predict the weather. It can observe changes in the land and oceans from space. It was launched to provide improved weather forecasts and to help warn people about natural disasters such as storms and floods.

Use the internet to find the other Indian satellites that were sent to space in 2024.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name the spacecrafts that were used to launch these satellites.

a XPoSat

b INSAT-3DS

2 Write the dates when these satellites were launched.

a XPoSat

b INSAT-3DS

3 Fill in the blanks.

a INSAT-3DS is a satellite.

b XPoSat is a satellite.

c XPoSat helps the ISRO study the emitted by stars and other celestial bodies.

d POLIX measures the and of rays emitted by the space objects.

e POLIX was developed by the and the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC).

f INSAT-3DS warns people about .

g INSAT-3DS can observe changes in the and from the space.

h INSAT-3DS was launched to provide improved forecasts.

5 R’s of Waste Management

We all produce waste every day, such as food wrappers, old toys or used paper. We can manage the amount of waste we generate by following the 5 R’s of waste management.

Refuse is simply saying ‘NO’ to the things we do not need. We should refuse to buy or accept products such as single-use plastic items or plastic bags that harm people, animals and our environment.

Reduce the use of things that add to the waste. This is about being mindful of what and how much we need. For example, we should carry our own bags and water bottles when we go out rather than buying new ones.

Reuse things instead of throwing them away. It includes repairing things instead of replacing them. For example, one should replace plastic straws with reusable metal straws.

Recycling is a process to change waste into usable products. If it is not possible to refuse, reduce or reuse, only then send the item for recycling. Items such as plastic bottles, metal cans and paper can be recycled.

Repurpose waste items that are meant for one purpose but can be used in other ways too. For example, use a waste plastic bottle to grow plants. This is also known as upcycling. It requires creative thinking.

Learn about this R too!

Rot

Plant and animal waste decays or rots easily. These can be added to the soil to make compost.

Recycling Saves Trees

Most of the paper we use comes from trees. Producing recycled paper takes less energy and water than producing new paper. So, each time we send paper for recycling, we help to save trees.

Managing waste properly is important to keep the environment safe and the earth clean. It also helps protect plants and animals.

Practice Time

1 Write the 5 R’s of waste management.

2 Which R of waste management am I?

a I tell you to avoid buying things you don’t need.

b I tell you to find a different use for a waste item.

c I tell you to use fewer things that add to waste.

d I tell you to use things again instead of throwing them away.

e I am a process that can change waste into new, usable materials.

Fill in the correct R’s of managing waste.

a We must (refuse/recycle) the use of plastic bags.

b We can (recycle/reuse) an empty jam jar to store salt.

c We can (reuse/rot) vegetable peels to make compost.

d We can (recycle/repair) a slightly broken table instead of replacing it.

e We can (refuse/repurpose) a cup with a broken handle as a pen holder.

f We can (rot/recycle) crushed and broken plastic bottles to make new things.

g A metal water bottle is better than plastic as it can be (refused/reused).

h We must replace tissue paper with cloth towels as they can be (reused/repaired).

Great Inventors

An inventor is someone who thinks of a new idea and then makes something useful from that idea. Let us learn about some of the great inventors and their inventions.

Johannes Gutenberg

Johannes Gutenberg is known for building the first mechanical printing press in the mid-1400s. His printing process was one of the greatest inventions. One of the known books he printed was the Gutenberg Bible.

Thomas Savery

Thomas Savery, an English engineer, built the first steam engine in the 1690s. He patented a steam pump in the year 1698. The steam engine uses steam to make machines work and powers things like trains and factories.

Samuel F. B. Morse

Samuel Morse was an American inventor. He developed an electric telegraph between 1832-1835. His invention allowed people to send messages over long distances using electric signals.

Guglielmo Marconi

Guglielmo Marconi invented the radio in 1896. He developed a wireless communication system that sent radio signals over long distances, which led to the development of advanced radio technology. He received the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1909.

The Wright Brothers

The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright, invented the first airplane, that a pilot could control in 1903. The first airplane flew at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina for 12 seconds and covered a distance of 36 metres.

Use the internet to find the inventors of any three modern devices that you use in your daily life.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Match the following inventions and the years of the inventions.

a First mechanical printing press 1832–1835

b Steam pump 1903

c Electric telegraph Mid-1400s

d The radio 1698

e The first airplane 1896

2 Fill in the blanks.

a One of the famous books that Johannes Gutenberg printed was the .

b The steam engine uses steam to make work and things like trains and factories.

c Guglielmo Marconi developed a that sent radio signals over long distances.

d The first airplane flew for and covered a distance of .

e The electric telegraph allowed people to send messages over long distances using

Who am I? Write the names of the inventors.

a I built the first steam engine.

b I built the first mechanical printing press.

c We invented the first airplane.

d I invented the radio.

e I developed an electric telegraph.

Historical Monuments of India

India has many monuments of historical importance that include palaces, forts and temples.

Qutb Minar Delhi

As of today, this tower is 72.5 m tall. This makes it one of the tallest historical towers in Asia. It was first built around the 13th century. The site is also home to several other monuments such as the Tomb of Iltutmish and the Iron Pillar of Delhi.

Agra Fort Agra, Uttar Pradesh

It is a large fortress of red sandstone. It was started by Akbar in 1565 and took eight years to build. The complex of the fortress includes Jahangir’s Palace, the Pearl Mosque and the Diwan-i-Khas. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Gateway

of India Mumbai, Maharashtra

Located at the waterfront of the Arabian Sea, this archshaped structure was built by the British in 1924. It was viewed as the symbol of entry and exit to India. Now, it is a favourite picnic spot for locals and tourists. It is 26 metres tall.

Charminar Hyderabad, Telangana

As the name suggests, this monument has char (four) minars (towers), one on each of the four corners of the structure.

Located in the heart of the city, this monument was built in 1591. Over the years, it has become a symbol of the city.

Hawa Mahal Jaipur, Rajasthan

This five-storey palace was built using red sandstone by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. It was completed in 1799. It served as a viewing screen for the women of the royal Rajput families. They could view the vibrant and colourful bazaar of Jaipur through it.

Sanchi Stupa Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

It is one of the best-preserved ancient stupas in India. It is said that it was originally built in the 3rd century BCE by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. It is surrounded by four carved gateways showing the life of Lord Buddha. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.

Konark Temple Konark, Odisha

Located near the shore of the Bay of Bengal, this temple represents the Hindu sun god Surya’s chariot, led by a group of seven horses. Its structure includes 24 wheels at the base. It was built in the 13th century.

Mysuru Palace Mysuru, Karnataka

This place is in a fort complex. The palace was built between 1897-1912. It is now a museum and a major tourist attraction. It includes 12 temples which make up the complex.

All these monuments are very important to the history and cultural heritage of India. We should not damage them while visiting.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name the states of India where the monuments are located.

a Konark Temple

c Agra Fort

e Mysuru Palace

b Qutb Minar

d Hawa Mahal

f Sanchi Stupa

2 Read the features and name the monuments.

a It has four carved gateways, depicting the life of the Buddha.

b This 72.5 m high tower is located in Delhi.

c This arch-shaped structure is on the waterfront of the Arabian Sea.

d This five-storey palace is built with red sandstone.

e This temple represents the chariots of the sun god, Surya.

f Its construction was started by Akbar in 1565.

3 Match the following monuments and their features.

a Became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983

b 12 temples make up this complex

c Has one minar on each corner of the structure

d Was viewed as the symbol of entry and exit to India

First Female Leaders

Many female leaders have played a key role in changing and inspiring the world as we know it today. Here are some of the first female leaders from around the world.

Pratibha Patil

(First Female President, India)

She was a lawyer and a politician, who became the first female president of India from 2007 to 2012. She served as the Governor of the state of Rajasthan in 2004.

Kamala Harris

(First Female Vice President, USA)

In January 2021, she became the first female vice president of the United States of America (USA). Harris has been known for raising important issues such as the increase in the minimum wage, healthcare and immigration.

Claudia Sheinbaum

(First Female President, Mexico)

Claudia Sheinbaum became the first female president of Mexico in October 2024. She is an environmental engineer. She was also the Mayor of Mexico City from 2018 to 2023.

Indira Gandhi

(First Female Prime Minister, India)

She served as the prime minister of India from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 until 1984. She was the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. She was known for her strong leadership and determination, leading India through several political and social changes.

Christine Lagarde

(First Female Managing Director, IMF)

She is a French lawyer and politician, who was the first woman to become the finance minister of France. She also served as the first female Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 2011 to 2019.

Kim Campbell

(First Female Prime Minister, Canada)

She served as the 19th prime minister of Canada from June to November 1993. Even though her tenure was brief, Campbell made history as the first and the only woman so far to hold the highest office in the country.

Sirimavo Bandaranaike

(First Female Prime Minister, Sri Lanka)

In the general election of 1960 in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), Sirimavo became the first female prime minister of not just her nation but of the world. She left office in 1965 but returned to serve again from 1970 to 1977, and then again from 1994 to 2000.

Women leaders are making a big difference in the world today. They are good at solving problems, thinking creatively and working well in teams.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Write the names of these first female leaders.

a The first female prime minister of India:

b The first female prime minister in the world:

c The first female vice president of the USA:

d The first female managing director of the IMF:

e The first female president of India:

f The first female president of Mexico:

2 Write the tenure/tenures during which these female leaders served.

a Kim Campbell:

b Sirimavo Bandaranaike:

c Pratibha Patil:

d Christine Lagarde:

e Indira Gandhi:

3 Write True or False.

a Pratibha Patil served as the governor of West Bengal.

b Sirimavo Bandaranaike served as the prime minister of Sri Lanka for three terms.

c Kim Campbell was the first female prime minister of the USA.

d Claudia Sheinbaum was the mayor of Mexico City from 2018 to 2023.

e Christine Lagarde was previously the finance minister of France.

Musical World

People, across the world, listen to music and sing songs in different languages. Let us learn about the magical world of music and some renowned musicians.

Lata Mangeshkar was an Indian playback singer. She was also known as the ‘Nightingale of India’. She sang more than 40,000 songs in 36 languages in her lifetime. Lata Mangeshkar was honoured with the Bharat Ratna in 2001. Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon and Luka-Chuppi are two popular songs sung by her.

Taylor Swift is an American singer and songwriter. As of 2024, she has won 14 Grammy awards. She is the first and the only female singer to win the Grammy for ‘Album of the Year’ four times for her solo recordings. 1989 and Folklore are two of her famous albums.

A.R. Rahman is an Indian composer, singer and songwriter. He has composed music for many films such as Slumdog Millionaire, Dil Se and Jodha Akbar. Rahman won two Oscars in 2009, two Grammys, a BAFTA Award and a Golden Globe. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2000 and the Padma Bhushan in 2010.

Ustad Zakir Hussain is a famous tabla player from India. He is also known as the ‘Tabla Maestro’. Hussain was awarded the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. He became the first Indian musician to win three Grammys at once in 2024. He had previously won one Grammy in 2009. Planet Drum and Global Drum Project are two of his renowned works.

Bob Dylan is an American folk singer and songwriter. He was the first musician to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature. He has also won 10 Grammys. Mr. Tambourine Man and Like A Rolling Stone are two of his famous songs.

Stevie Wonder is an American singer and songwriter known for playing many instruments. He has been blind since birth. He has won 25 Grammys. He also won an Oscar in the year 1985. He won the Grammy for ‘Album of the Year’ three times for his recordings. Overjoyed and Superstition are two of his famous songs.

The Grammys are one of the most prestigious music awards in the world. Use the internet to find out which musician has won the most Grammys.

Practice Time

1 Match the following.

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

a Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon A. R. Rahman

b Planet Drum Stevie Wonder

c Jai Ho Lata Mangeshkar

d Folklore Ustad Zakir Hussain

e Superstition Taylor Swift

2 Fill in the blanks.

a Lata Mangeshkar was awarded the in 2001.

b Bob Dylan has won Grammys.

c Ustad Zakir Hussain was awarded the in 2023.

d Stevie Wonder won the Grammy for ‘Album of the Year’ for his recordings.

Name the musician.

a The Indian tabla player who won three Grammys in 2024.

b The American folk musician who won the Nobel Prize for Literature.

c The American singer who has been blind since birth and has won 25 Grammys.

d The Indian female playback singer who sang songs in 36 languages and was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2001.

e An Indian music composer who won two Oscars in 2009.

f The only female singer to win the Grammy for ‘Album of the Year’ four times.

5 C’s of Communication

There are five principles that we should keep in mind in order to communicate effectively. These are called the 5 C’s of communication. Let us learn more about them.

The information should be concrete— accurate, free of errors and taken from trusted sources. One should double-check all the facts and figures before communicating, thus making the message reliable. We should use precise words to convey meaning properly.

We should be direct, brief and to the point. We should try to use as few words as possible to communicate our ideas in a concise manner.

We should use simple language to ensure that our message is clear. We should not use too many abbreviations (short forms) or complicated words. Instead, we should use simple vocabulary and break down our complex ideas in a clear manner.

CoherentComplete

Communication should be cohesive. This means that it should be logical. The information should have a flow of thought. It should not be jumbled up, as that would lead to confusion and divert the attention of the audience from the main message.

We should provide complete information that supports our idea when we are communicating. We should not provide only bits and pieces of information since that makes our message unclear.

We should follow the 5 C’s of communication to ensure that our messages are understood properly, reduce errors and build trust.

Concrete

Concise Clear

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Tick ( ) the options that are a part of the 5 C’s of communication.

a Clear

c Courageous

e Concise

g Coherent

2 Write True or False.

b Concrete

d Complete

f Conscious

h Costly

a We should use as many words as possible while communicating.

b Our information should have a flow of thought.

c We should only provide bits and pieces of information in a single communication.

d We should be direct and to the point while communicating.

e We should use many abbreviations and complicated words while communicating.

3 Write ‘yes’ if the person is communicating effectively, and ‘no’ if they are not.

a Arnav uses long and difficult words in all of his sentences.

b Neerja ensures that her speech has a flow and is logical.

c Aarush provides all the relevant information in a single message.

d Preeti does not check whether her information, facts and figures are correct before communicating.

Indian Elections, 2024

In 2024, general elections were held in India to elect members of the Lok Sabha. Elections were also held in many Indian states. Let us learn more about the 2024 Indian elections.

In India, the members of the government are chosen by the people of the country. All Indian citizens who are 18 and above can cast their votes to choose their representatives. The process of choosing our leaders through the casting of votes is called an election.

In 2024, the 18th Lok Sabha elections were held from 19 April to 1 June in seven phases. After the counting of votes, the results were declared on 4 June 2024.

65.79% voters turned out for voting in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won the elections. It consisted of the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), along with other parties like the Janata Dal (United) and the Telugu Desam Party. Narendra Modi was re-elected as prime minister of India for the third time.

Elections are also held in the states and the union territories. These elections are for the purpose of electing members of the state legislative assemblies. They are called state assembly elections. They take place every five years. Some states and union territories that had elections in 2024 are:

• Arunachal Pradesh

• Sikkim

• Andhra Pradesh

• Odisha

• Haryana

• Maharashtra

• Jharkhand

• Jammu and Kashmir

Ask your parents about how a person can register to vote in the elections.

Practice Time

1 Write True or False.

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

a The National Democratic Alliance won the 2024 general elections in India.

b All Indians above the age of ten can cast their votes in the elections.

c The 2024 Lok Sabha elections were held in four phases.

d Indian states also have elections to elect members of the state legislative assemblies.

e Rahul Gandhi was elected as the prime minister in the 2024 elections.

2 Fill in the blanks.

a The 2024 Lok Sabha elections were the edition of the Lok Sabha elections.

b The process of choosing our leaders through the casting of votes is called an .

c Narendra Modi was elected as the in the 2024 elections.

d The results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections were declared on .

e In India, the state assembly elections take place every years.

3 Tick ( ) the states in which state assembly elections took place in 2024.

a Andhra Pradesh

c Gujarat

e Maharashtra

g Haryana

i Punjab

b Sikkim

d Jharkhand

f Tamil Nadu

h Meghalaya

j Karnataka

Too Much Water, Too Little Water

Floods and droughts are two major natural disasters that can have a big impact on the environment and people’s lives. Let us learn more about them.

Floods can be caused by excessive rainfall, storms and tsunamis.

A flood is caused by an overflow of water onto land. One of the largest humanmade floods in history was the Great Flood of 1938 in China.

Human activities, like the construction of dams and deforestation, also cause floods.

Droughts occur when the temperature is high and there is little or no rainfall.

Ways to Stay Safe During Floods

Floods lead to waterlogging, loss of lives and damage to property.

A drought is a long, dry period without rainfall resulting in an extreme shortage of water. The Sahel Drought that occurred in the Sahel region of Africa in the 1960s and 1970s was disastrous.

Avoid contact with floodwater.

Follow the orders of helping authorities.

Prevent Droughts

Use water judiciously

Human activities like cutting down trees and overuse of groundwater can also cause droughts.

Droughts cause water and food shortages for years, leading to loss of lives.

Prevent cutting down of trees.

Floods can make water dirty by mixing in harmful substances, which can be dangerous for our health.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 HOTS Write whether the following are a cause of Flood, Drought or Both.

a Construction of dams:

b High temperature and no rainfall for years:

c Excessive rainfall and storms:

d Tsunami:

e Overuse of groundwater:

f Deforestation:

2 HOTS Write whether the following occurs due to Flood, Drought or Both.

a Loss of lives:

b Large-scale damage to property:

c Waterlogging for many days:

d Shortage of water and food in years to come:

e Formation of deserts:

3 Choose the correct option from the brackets and fill in the details.

a The largest human-made flood in (1983/1938) happened in (India/China).

b The Sahel drought occurred in the (1960s and 1970s/1970s and 1980s).

4 Look at the pictures. Write the ways in which they show how to stay safe during floods. a b

Common Diseases and Their Symptoms

Some diseases are very common and we are all affected by them at some point in our lives. Let us learn more about these diseases.

Influenza is a viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs. It spreads very easily from one person to another. It spreads through airborne droplets that are released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The primary symptoms of influenza are a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing and fever. It can also cause headaches and fatigue (tiredness).

Dengue is a viral infection, also called the breakbone fever. It spreads through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Its symptoms include a high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain and skin rashes. It can also cause nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, dengue can be a life-threatening disease. It is important to consult a doctor for treatment.

Chickenpox is a disease that causes itchy rashes all over the body. It lasts for around four to seven days. It spreads from one person to another very easily. The symptoms of chicken pox include fever, headache, itching and red spots all over the body. Chickenpox can be prevented by a vaccine called varicella which is given to children at a young age.

Conjunctivitis is a disease that causes irritation and infection in the eye. It is also called pink eye. It spreads very easily through contact with an infected person. The symptoms include pain, redness, itching and swelling of the eyes.

We should always cover our mouths with a handkerchief while coughing and sneezing so that we don’t spread diseases to other people.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Identify the diseases from the given symptoms.

a Red spots on the body

b Muscle and joint pain

c Redness of the eyes

d Runny nose

2 Write True or False.

a Dengue is spread by sneezing.

b Conjunctivitis is also called blue eye.

c Dengue can be a life-threatening disease in severe cases.

d Influenza spreads through water.

e Chickenpox causes itchy rashes all over the body.

3 Fill in the blanks.

a Chickenpox can be prevented by a vaccine called

b is also called the breakbone fever.

c A runny nose and sore throat are the primary symptoms of .

d Conjunctivitis is also called .

e Dengue spreads through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

4 HOTS A young boy named Ricky has recently been experiencing redness and itching in his eyes. His mother noticed that his eyes are also swollen and that he often rubs them. Given these symptoms, determine the most likely condition Ricky might be suffering from.

Ricky might be suffering from .

Classical Dance Forms of India

The classical dance forms of India have been a part of its culture for a very long time.

Kathak

This dance is practised in most states of northern India. The word Kathak is derived from katha (story). So, Kathak is a way of storytelling through dance. It is often performed by both men and women.

Odissi

This dance is from Odisha. It is mainly performed by women. It originated from temples, so the movements express stories and ideas of Hindu gods and goddesses. It is a very expressive dance and has a lot of mudras (gestures).

Bharatanatyam

This dance is from Tamil Nadu. It originated from an ancient book written on drama, called the Natyashastra. Its name comprises how it is performed: Bha + ra + ta + natyam = Bhavam (expression) + ragam (melody) + talam (rhythm) + natyam (dance).

Mohiniyattam

This dance form is also known as the dance of Mohini (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). It is a solo dance form of Kerala. The performance involves delicate body movements and graceful expressions. The songs are mostly a mix of Sanskrit and Malayalam.

Manipuri

This dance is from Manipur. It shows dramas based on the love between Radha and Krishna. The male dancer wears a crown adorned with peacock feathers. The female dancers wear a dolllike costume called a potloi.

Kuchipudi

This dance is from Andhra Pradesh. Earlier, it was performed only by males. Now, it is mainly performed by females. The male dancers wear a dhoti, while the female dancers wear a saree. The performance includes acting and singing, along with dancing.

Kathakali

This dance originated from Kerala. It was traditionally performed by males. The costumes and make-up include painted masks and huge headdresses. The performances mainly depict stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Sattriya

This dance is from Assam. It is usually performed by male monks in monasteries. The main theme of this dance is the stories of Radha and Krishna.

Dancing requires a lot of energy and fitness. It is a very good form of exercise.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Name the classical dances from the following states.

a Kerala

c Assam

e Tamil Nadu

2 Match the following.

b Odisha

d Andhra Pradesh

f Manipur

a Bharatanatyam

b Kathak

c Mohiniyattam

d Sattriya

Read the features and name the dance forms.

a This dance includes songs sung in Sanskrit and Malayalam.

b This dance is performed by male monks.

c The make-up of this dance includes headdresses and painted masks.

d This dance originated from the temples and has a lot of mudras.

e This dance depicts stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

f This dance originated from an ancient book called the Natyashastra.

The United Nations

The United Nations (UN) is an international organisation founded in 1945, after World War II.

The UN is one place where all the countries come together to discuss common problems like poverty and climate change; and find solutions for them. The UN aims to make the world a better place.

The headquarters of the UN is located in New York, USA.

Six Main Organs of the UN

The six main organs of the UN were established in 1945 when the organisation was founded.

• General Assembly

• Security Council

• Trusteeship Council

• Economic and Social Council

• International Court of Justice

• UN Secretariat

Some Specialised Groups of the UN

The UN’s membership has grown from 51 Member States (countries) in 1945 to 193 Member States by 2024.

The Secretary-General

The Secretary-General is the chief administrative officer of the UN. António Guterres of Portugal is the current Secretary-General of the UN and the 9th occupant of the post. He took up the post on 1 January 2017.

The General Assembly

It is the largest organ of the UN. All 193 Member States of the UN are represented in the General Assembly. Every year in September, all the UN members meet in the General Assembly Hall in New York.

The UN also runs various agencies, funds and programmes that work to improve aspects such as health, agriculture, education, culture and tourism across the world.

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) World Health Organization (WHO)

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) World Food Programme (WFP) World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

The United Nations works to maintain peace and harmony amongst all the countries of the world. It promotes cooperation between countries. We should learn these values and apply them to our lives.

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Fill in the blanks with the correct answer.

a The year in which the UN was founded:

b The number of main organs of the UN:

c The number of member countries of the UN in 2024:

d The largest organ of the UN:

e The location of the UN headquarters:

f The Secretary-General of the UN in 2024:

2 Tick ( ) the main organs of the United Nations.

a The General Assembly

b The Security Council

c International Monetary Fund

d The Trusteeship Council

e International Labour Organization

f The UN Secretariat

3 Write the full forms of these UN agencies.

a WHO:

b UNEP:

c WFP:

d UNESCO:

e UNICEF:

f UNWTO:

Yoga and Meditation

Yoga and meditation are ancient practices that keep our bodies and minds healthy.

Yoga

Yoga is a way to train and control both our body and mind. We perform a series of movements and poses. These poses are called asanas. There are many different types of asanas. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word yog meaning union. So, yoga is about the union of body and mind.

21 June is celebrated as International Yoga Day.

How do we practise yoga?

Yoga has different asanas. These asanas are done in a flow by focussing on the correct posture and breathing techniques.

Some Yoga Asanas

Meditation

Meditation is a practice where we focus our mind and help calm our mind. We use different ways to focus, think deeply, and clear our thoughts. It can benefit our emotional well-being and overall health. It is also performed to gain spiritual awareness.

Some Benefits of Yoga

• Builds muscular strength

• Improves flexibility

• Increases our balance

• Regulates our breathing

• Strengthens our organ systems

Some Benefits of Meditation

How do we practise meditation?

While meditating, we sit, close our eyes and relax. We take slow, deep breaths and monitor our thoughts. It is a quiet time for the mind.

• Helps us relax and stay calm

• Enhances our thoughts

• Gives us peace

• Regulates our breathing

Yoga and meditation are powerful practices that promote physical, mental and emotional well-being. Create a poster on the benefits of yoga and meditation.

Vrikshasana Trikonasana Ardha Chandrasana Padmasana

Practice Time

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

1 Read the following sentences and write if they are for yoga or meditation.

a It has different asanas.

b In this, one monitors their thoughts.

c It is a quiet time for the mind.

d It is the union of the body and the mind.

2 Fill in the blanks.

a Yoga is a way to train both our and .

b The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word meaning .

c During yoga, we perform poses which are called .

d Meditation is also performed to gain awareness.

e While meditating, we sit, close our eyes and .

3 Write the names of any four yoga asanas. , , , .

4 Write True or False.

a Yoga strengthens our organ systems.

b Meditation helps to regulate our breathing, while yoga does not.

c Yoga helps to increase our balance.

d Meditation helps us to relax and stay calm.

e Meditation builds muscular strength.

f Yoga helps to improve the flexibility of the body.

Digital Payments

We see people buying things at a store and using their phones or cards to pay instead of using cash. This is called digital payment. Let us learn more about it.

Digital Payment

Digital payment is a method of paying for goods and services without using cash or coins. Digital payments are fast, safe and easy. They help to keep track of where our money is spent.

Some Types of Digital Payments

UPI

UPI (Unified Payments

Interface) is a system where we can instantly send money from one bank account to another using a mobile application. We need to link our bank account to the mobile application. We need the other person’s mobile number, or a unique QR code or a unique ID to transfer money.

Credit and Debit Cards

Both credit and debit cards let us pay for our purchases using a machine. When we use a debit card the purchase amount is paid from the money that is in our bank account. Credit cards allow us to borrow money from the bank to pay for goods or services, but we have to pay it back later.

Online Banking

Online banking allows us to send money from one bank account to another using a website or a mobile application. We can also manage our bank accounts through online banking. We can only use our own bank’s web or mobile application for online banking.

We need to be careful about scams when we make digital payments. One should always ensure that the website or application we are using is secure and trustworthy.

Practice Time

1 Write True or False.

Scan this QR code to see the quiz.

a UPI takes a lot of time to transfer money from one bank account to another.

b We cannot keep track of our money while using digital payments.

c Digital payments are safe, quick and easy.

d We need the bank account details of the other person when using UPI.

e Debit cards let us pay with the money that is already in our bank account.

2 Fill in the blanks.

a Digital payments mean paying for goods and services without using .

b UPI stands for .

c To use UPI, we need to link our to the mobile application.

d A allows us to borrow money from the bank to pay for something, but we have to pay it back later.

e We can manage our bank accounts using .

3 HOTS Identify the type of digital payment used in the following situations.

a Arun asked the shopkeeper for a QR code and used it to pay him.

b Ishika asked her friend to send her bank account details to send the money.

c Vaibhav asked the waiter for a machine and used it to pay the restaurant bill from the money in his account.

Answers

1. World Leaders, 2024

1. a. Narendra Modi b. Keir Starmer

c. Vladimir Putin d. Cyril Ramaphosa

e. Anura Kumara Dissanayake

2. a. fifth b. 2014, 2019, 2019 c. 2018

d. Leader of the Opposition e. 9th

3. a. India, June b. Russia, May

c. South Africa, June d. Sri Lanka, September

e. United Kingdom, July

2. Unique Forests

1. a. Asia, North America b. Africa, Asia

c. Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean

d. Sundarban National Park, India; Sundarban

Forest, Bangladesh

2. a. coasts, riverbanks b. kelp

c. taiga d. roots e. Coniferous trees

f. tropical montane forests

3. Across

1. MANGROVE 2. BOREAL

Down

1. UNDERWATER 2. CLOUD

3. Discoveries and Inventions

1. a. Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen b. Alan Turing

c. Tim Berners-Lee d. Hanson Robotics

e. NASA

2. a. 1935 b. 1989 c. 2021 d. 2016

e. 1895

3. a. medical b. Self-driving cars

c. machines, computers d. World Wide Web

e. Saudi Arabia, 2017

f. James Webb Space Telescope

4. Heroes of Indian Freedom

1. a. Lokmanya b. Punjab Kesari c. Netaji

2. a. Bhagat Singh b. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

c. Subhash Chandra Bose

3. a. 2 October b. 23 March c. 23 January

4. a. Jawaharlal Nehru b. Mahatma Gandhi

c. Subhash Chandra Bose d. Bhagat Singh

e. Lala Lajpat Rai f. Bipin Chandra Pal

5. Countries and Their Capitals

1. a. Washington D.C. b. Cairo c. Brasilia

d. London e. Tokyo

2. a. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Colombo

b. La Paz, Sucre c. Amsterdam, The Hague

3. a. Tokyo b. Cairo c. London

d. Washington D.C.

4. a. South Africa b. Nauru c. Brazil

d. Japan

6. Hockey in India

1. a. 11 b. 4 c. J d. 1928 to 1956

e. three f. 8

2. a. Wizard b. six c. 1975, 1973

d. 1980

3. Tournament

7. First-Aid Emergencies

1. a. 3 b. 1 c. 2 d. 4

2. a. 4 b. 1 c. 3 d. 2

3. a. 2 b. 1 c. 4 d. 3

4. a. Do b. Do c. Don’t d. Do

e. Don’t f. Don’t g. Don’t

8. Calamities of 2024

1. a. 1 January 2024 b. 1 July 2024

c. July-August 2024 d. September 2024

2. a. Hurricane Beryl b. earthquake

c. landslides d. Typhoon Yagi e. 7.5

3. a.  b.  c.  d. 

e.  f. 

9. Animals of the Tropical Rainforest

1. a. four b. 9 c. 20,000 d. Four

2. a. The Island of Sumatra and Borneo

b. America c. Central and South America

d. Ituri, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa

3. a. give birth to babies

b. hold branches and hang from trees

c. clean their eyelids, ears and neck

4. a. Sloth b. Golden poison frog

c. Okapi d. Orangutan e. Toucan

10. Smart Devices

1. a. smart speaker b. International Business Machines Corporation c. refrigerator

d. Seiko e. smart TVs

2. a. LG b. IBM c. Seiko

3. a. Smartwatch b. Smartphone

c. Smart speaker d. Smart refrigerator

11. Old Cities, New Names

1. a. Calcutta b. Madras c. Allahabad

d. Gurgaon e. Cochin f. Bombay

2. a. Chennai b. Gurugram c. Bombay

d. Kochi e. Prayagraj

3. a. Chennai b. Kolkata

12. 7 New Wonders of the World

1. a. Agra b. Rome c. Rio de Janeiro

2. a. Mexico b. Peru c. Jordan

3. a. Christ the Redeemer b. Chichen Itza

c. The Colosseum d. The Great Wall of China

e. Petra f. Taj Mahal g. Machu Picchu

4. a. Machu Picchu b. Petra c. Christ the Redeemer

13. Renowned Filmmakers

1. a. Pulp Fiction, Django Unchained

b. Sankofa, Bush Mama

c. The Piano, Bright Star

d. Pather Panchali, Aparajito

2. a. Satyajit Ray

b. Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne

c. Haile Gerima

d. Quentin Tarantino

e. Fernando Meirelles

f. Jane Campion

3. a. Haile Gerima b. Jane Campion

c. Quentin Tarantino d. Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne e. Satyajit Ray

14. Kitchen Gardening

1. Spinach, Tomatoes, Coriander, Lemons

2. a. 2 b. 3 c. 4 d. 1

3. a. Do b. Do c. Don’t d. Don’t

e. Do f. Do g. Don’t h. Don’t

15. Banks and their Uses

1. a. money b. bank c. depositing

d. withdrawing e. loan f. locker

2. a. False b. True c. False d. True

3. a. Car, Home, Business

b. jobs, businesses

16. India in Sports, 2024

1. a. 26 July 2024- 11 August 2024; Paris, France b. 28 August 2024- 8 September 2024; Paris, France c. 1 June 2024- 29 June, USA and West Indies d. 10 September 2024 to 23 September 2024, Budapest, Hungary

2. a. six b. 117 c. 29, 7, 9 d. South Africa

e. Open, Women’s f. third

3. a.  b.  c.  d.  e. 

f. 

17. Underwater Wonders

1. a. Pacific Ocean b. Atlantic Ocean

c. Pacific Ocean d. Atlantic Ocean

2. a. Australia b. Mariana Islands c. Mexico

3. a. 371 km b. 16000 km c. 11 km

4. a. Challenger Deep b. Mid-Atlantic Ridge

c. Sistema Sac Actun d. Great Barrier Reef

18. Space Gadgets and Tools

1. a. 26 November 2011 b. 14 July 2023

c. 1990 d. 6 August 2012

2. a. communication cap b. rays

c. stars, planets d. space observatory

e. NASA

3. a. Pragyan b. Hubble space telescope

c. Artificial satellite d. Spacesuit e. Rover

19. Occupations in India

1. a. Agriculture b. Service sector c. Milk

d. IT and software sector

2. Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai

3. a. Traditional Occupations b. Service Sector

c. Agriculture d. Manufacturing Industry

20. International Flags

1. a. United States of America b. Switzerland

c. Bangladesh d. Denmark e. Romania

f. Japan g. Vatican City h. Nepal

2. a. Switzerland, Vatican City b. Monaco, Poland c. Japan, Bangladesh

3. a. Switzerland b. Nepal c. Bangladesh

d. India e. Japan f. Denmark

21. Sports Stadiums

1. a. Athens b. United States of America

c. India d. Australia e. Singapore

f. Pyongyang

2. a. Panathenaic Stadium

b. Docklands Stadium

c. Narendra Modi Stadium

d. Ohio Football Stadium

e. Rungrado 1st of May Stadium

f. The Float at Marina Bay

3. a. Marvel b. 1.5 lakh c. 63 acres

d. 1896 e. Ohio Football Stadium

f. parachute

22. Languages around the World

1. a. France b. United Kingdom

c. Saudi Arabia (Middle Eastern country)

d. Germany e. India f. Spain

2. a. True b. False c. False d. True

e. True

3. a. French b. Spanish c. English

d. Hindi e. German f. Arabic

23. Indian Satellites, 2024

1. a. PSLV-C58 b. GSLV-F14

2. a. 1 January 2024 b. 17 February 2024

3. a. weather b. space observatory

c. light d. direction, amount e. Raman Research Institute f. natural disasters

g. land, oceans h. weather

24. 5 Rs of Waste Management

1. Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose

2. a. Refuse b. Repurpose c. Reduce

d. Reuse e. Recycling

3. a. refuse b. reuse c. rot d. repair

e. repurpose f. recycle g. reused

h. reused

25. Great Inventors

1. a. Mid-1400s b. 1698 c. 1832-1835

d. 1896 e. 1903

2. a. Gutenberg Bible b. machines, powers

c. wireless communications system

d. 12 seconds, 36 metres e. electric signals

3. a. Thomas Savery b. Johannes Gutenberg

c. The Wright Brothers d. Guglielmo

Marconi e. Samuel F.B. Morse

26. Historical Monuments of India

1. a. Odisha b. Delhi c. Uttar Pradesh d. Rajasthan e. Karnataka f. Madhya Pradesh

2. a. Sanchi Stupa b. Qutb Minar

c. Gateway of India d. Hawa Mahal

e. Konark Temple f. Agra Fort

3. a. Has one minar on each corner of the structure b. Became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 c. Was viewed as the symbol of entry and exit to India

d. 12 temples make up the complex

27. First Female Leaders

1. a. Indira Gandhi b. Sirimavo Bandaranaike

c. Kamala Harris d. Christine Lagarde

e. Pratibha Patil f. Claudia Sheinbaum

2. a. June to November 1993 b. 1960 to 1965, 1970 to 1977 and 1994 to 2000 c. 2007 to 2012 d. 2011 to 2019 e. 1966 to 1977 and 1980 to 1984

3. a. False b. True c. False d. True

e. True

28. Musical World

1. a. Lata Mangeshkar b. Ustad Zakir Hussain

c. A.R. Rahman d. Taylor Swift

e. Stevie Wonder

2. a. Bharat Ratna b. 10

c. Padma Vibhushan d. thrice

3. a. Ustad Zakir Hussain b. Bob Dylan

c. Stevie Wonder d. Lata Mangeshkar

e. A. R. Rahman f. Taylor Swift

29. 5 Cs of Communication

1. a.  b.  c.  d.  e.  f.  g.  h. 

2. a. False b. True c. False

d. True e. False

3. a. no b. yes c. yes d. no

30. Indian Elections, 2024

1. a. True b. False c. False

d. True e. False

2. a. 18th b. election c. prime minister

d. 4 June 2024 e. five

3. a.  b.  c.  d. 

e.  f.  g.  h.  i.  j. 

31. Too Much Water, Too Little Water

1. a. Flood b. Drought c. Flood

d. Flood e. Drought f. Both

2. a. Both b. Flood c. Flood

d. Drought e. Drought

3. a. 1938, China b. 1960s and 1970s

4. a. Follow orders of helping authorities.

b. Avoid contact with floodwater.

32. Common Diseases and Their Symptoms

1. a. Chickenpox b. Dengue c. Conjunctivitis

d. Influenza

2. a. False b. False c. True

d. False e. True

3. a. varicella b. Dengue c. influenza

d. pink eye e. Aedes

4. Conjunctivitis

33. Classical Dance Forms of India

1. a. Kathakali b. Odissi c. Sattriya

d. Kuchipudi e. Bharatanatyam

f. Manipuri

2. a. Mohiniyattam b. Bharatanatyam

c. Sattriya d. Kathak

3. a. Mohiniyattam b. Sattriya c. Kathakali

d. Odissi e. Kathakali f. Bharatanatyam

34. The United Nations

1. a. 1945 b. Six c. 193

d. General Assembly e. New York, USA

f. Antonio Guterres

2. a.  b.  c. 

d.  e.  f. 

3. a. World Health Organization

b. United Nations Environment Programme

c. World Food Programme

d. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

e. United Nations International Children’s Fund

f. United Nations World Tourism Organization

35. Yoga and Meditation

1. a. Yoga b. Meditation

c. Meditation d. Yoga

2. a. body, mind b. yog, union c. asanas

d. spiritual e. relax

3. Vrikshasana, Trikonasana, Ardha Chandrasana, Padmasana

4. a. True b. False c. True d. True

e. False f. True

36. Digital Payments

1. a. False b. False c. True

d. False e. True

2. a. cash or coins.

b. Unified Payments Interface

c. bank account

d. Credit cards

e. online banking

3. a. UPI b. Online Banking c. Debit Card

About the Book

Introducing Aware, a comprehensive and engaging General Knowledge and Current Affairs book designed specifically for learners in grades 1 to 8. It empowers learners with general knowledge, awareness of global developments, functional competencies and the 21st-century skills essential for life today. This book spans nine thoughtfully curated themes.

About Uolo

Uolo partners with K-12 schools to provide technology-enabled learning programs. We believe that pedagogy and technology must come together to deliver scalable learning experiences that generate measurable outcomes. Uolo is trusted by over 15,000+ schools across India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

ISBN 978-81-980193-8-7