How Nature Works in Harmony
Class 8 · Science · 11 Questions
A population is part of a community. If all decomposers suddenly disappear from a forest ecosystem, what changes do you think would occur? Explain why decomposers are essential.
Selvam from Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, shared that his village was less affected by the 2004 Tsunami compared to nearby villages due to the presence of mangrove forests. This surprised Sarita, Shabnam, and Shijo. They wondered if mangroves were protecting the village. Can you help them understand this?
Look at this food chain: Grass → Grasshopper → Frog → Snake. If frogs disappear from this ecosystem, what will happen to the population of grasshoppers and snakes? Why?
In a school garden, students noticed fewer butterflies the previous season. What could be the possible reasons? What steps can students take to have more butterflies on campus?
Why is it not possible to have an ecosystem with only producers and no consumers or decomposers?
Observe two different places near your home or school (e.g., a park and a roadside). List the living and non-living components you see. How are the two ecosystems different?
'Human-made ecosystems like agricultural fields are necessary, but they must be made sustainable.' Comment on the statement.
Plan a clean-up day at school or a nearby park. Wearing gloves and using bags, collect the litter you find. Discuss the kinds of waste you found. Which was the most common? How can we reduce such waste?
In Arunachal Pradesh, the Nyishi and Mishmi tribes treat the Tiger as sacred. In Chhattisgarh, the Baiga tribe worships Bagheshwar or Bagesur Dev and believes the Tiger is the protector of the forest. Find out about another Indian tribe that has a special bond with any animal.
Pick a tree near your home or school. Observe it once a week for 4 weeks. Note any new leaves, flowers, fruits, or visiting birds and insects. Record your observations. You may even upload your findings to www.seasonwatch.in and become a young citizen scientist.
Interact with farmers and record indigenous practices followed by them for sustainable farming. Create a sustainable herbal garden/natural farm at home or at school. It could be a group activity with students from different grades.