CBSE Class 5 EVS NCERT Solutions: Chapter 6 - Every Drop Counts

NCERT Solutions PDF Class 5 PDF

This chapter, 'Every Drop Counts,' for CBSE Class 5 EVS, delves into the crucial topic of water conservation and management. The NCERT Solutions guide students to observe their surroundings, understand the journey of rainwater, and explore traditional water harvesting systems like stepwells. It encourages critical thinking about why water sources might dry up, linking it to environmental changes and human activities. By engaging with these solutions, students will develop a deeper appreciation for water's importance and learn about sustainable practices. These solutions are designed to aid students in understanding the concepts thoroughly and preparing effectively for their exams by providing clear explanations and thought-provoking questions.

Quick info

BoardCBSE
ClassClass 5
SubjectEVS
Session2026
LanguageEnglish
TypeNCERT Solutions
ChapterChapter 6

Chapter summary

Chapter 6, 'Every Drop Counts,' focuses on understanding water sources and conservation. The NCERT Solutions cover observations of local areas, the importance of stepwells and other traditional water bodies, and reasons for water scarcity. It prompts students to think about rainwater management and the impact of urbanization on water availability. The exercises encourage active learning through observation and discussion, reinforcing the significance of every drop of water.

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the importance of water conservation.
  • Identify different types of water sources in the local environment.
  • Learn about traditional water harvesting methods like stepwells.
  • Analyze the reasons for drying up of water bodies.
  • Observe and describe the journey of rainwater.
  • Develop critical thinking about water management issues.

Topics covered

Paper topics

  • Water conservation
  • Rainwater management
  • Local water sources
  • Stepwells
  • Traditional water harvesting
  • Causes of water scarcity
  • Environmental impact on water
  • Observation skills
  • Critical thinking

Important topics

  • Understanding Stepwells
  • Reasons for Drying Water Bodies
  • Rainwater Journey
  • Water Conservation Methods
  • Impact of Urbanization on Water

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Questions and Solutions

Question Think and Find Out:

Look at the area around your school. Are there any fields, farms, pucca roads, drains, etc.? Is the area sloping, rocky or flat? Think, what will happen here when it rains? Where will the rain water go – into the drains, pipes or pits? Is some water also getting soaked into the soil?
Solution:

The area surrounding my school includes paved roads (pucca roads) and drainage systems. The ground has a slight slope. When it rains, the water typically flows into these drains. Additionally, small depressions or pits along the sides of the roads can collect rainwater temporarily. A portion of this rainwater also naturally seeps into the soil, contributing to groundwater.

Disclaimer: This answer is based on a general observation. Students should observe their specific surroundings to provide accurate details for their own answer.

Question Find Out:

Is there a lake, well or stepwell near your house or school? Visit it and find out more about it. How old is it? Who got it built? What kinds of buildings are around it? Is the water clean? Is it cleaned regularly? Who all use the water? Is there any festival celebrated at this place? Is there any water today, or is it dry?
Solution:

This question encourages direct interaction with the local environment to learn about water bodies. Students are expected to visit a nearby lake, well, or stepwell (if available) and gather information such as its age, the builder, surrounding structures, water quality, cleaning practices, users, and any associated festivals. They should also note whether the water body currently has water or is dry.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this question is to foster active observation and inquiry. Specific answers will vary greatly depending on the student's location. No definitive answer is provided here to encourage personal investigation.

Question Discuss:

There are two old wells in the area where Punita lives. Her grandmother says that about fifteen – twenty years ago there was water in these wells. The wells could have dried up because: Water is being pumped up from under the ground with the help of electric motors. The lakes in which rain water used to collect are no longer there. The soil around trees and parks is now covered with cement. Is there some other reason for this? Explain.
Solution:

Besides the reasons mentioned (excessive pumping of groundwater and the disappearance of lakes/increased cement surfaces), other factors can contribute to wells drying up. These include changes in rainfall patterns (less rain over time), increased demand for water due to population growth, deforestation which reduces the soil's capacity to hold water, and pollution of underground water sources. Sometimes, geological changes or the construction of new buildings can also alter underground water flow.

Disclaimer: This question aims to stimulate thought about environmental changes and their impact on water resources. The provided explanation offers additional potential reasons for students to consider.

Common mistakes

  • Not considering the impact of urbanization on water bodies.
  • Failing to connect environmental changes to water scarcity.
  • Overlooking the role of traditional water conservation techniques.
  • Providing generic answers without specific local observations.

Revision tips

  • Draw a diagram showing the path of rainwater in your locality.
  • Research local traditional water sources and their history.
  • Discuss with family members about changes in water availability over the years.
  • List down ways to conserve water at home and school.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What is a common observation about the area around a school when it rains?

Q2. What is a stepwell primarily used for?

Q3. Which of the following is a potential reason for wells drying up, as mentioned in the chapter?

Q4. Covering soil around trees and parks with cement can affect water availability by:

Q5. The chapter 'Every Drop Counts' emphasizes the importance of:

Frequently asked questions

What is the main theme of CBSE Class 5 EVS Chapter 6?

The main theme of Chapter 6, 'Every Drop Counts,' is the importance of water conservation, understanding various water sources, and exploring traditional methods of water management.

Why are stepwells important in the context of this chapter?

Stepwells are highlighted as an important traditional method of water harvesting and storage, crucial for providing water, especially in areas facing water scarcity.

What are some reasons given for water sources drying up?

The chapter suggests reasons like excessive groundwater pumping using electric motors and the loss of traditional water collection areas due to urbanization (e.g., covering soil with cement).

How do these NCERT Solutions help students?

These solutions help students understand the concepts by providing clear explanations, encouraging observation of their surroundings, and prompting critical thinking about water-related issues, aiding in exam preparation.

Are the answers to all questions provided in the NCERT Solutions?

For questions that are situation-specific or require personal observation and discussion, the solutions guide students on how to approach them rather than providing a fixed answer, encouraging active learning.

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