NCERT Class 5 English Santoor: Chapter 6 — What a Tank!
This chapter, "What a Tank!" from NCERT Class 5 English Santoor, explores the historical and contemporary significance of water conservation and storage. It highlights traditional water management methods still practiced in India, such as Ooranis in Tamil Nadu and Panam Keni wells in Kerala. The chapter introduces Tankas, underground water storage systems common in Rajasthan's Thar region, capable of storing water for extended periods. It also contrasts these with modern overhead water tanks found in homes. A unique aspect discussed is the distinctive designs of overhead water tanks in Punjab's rural areas, which are often shaped like everyday objects or animals, showcasing cultural heritage alongside practical water storage. This chapter aims to educate students about the importance of water conservation and diverse water storage techniques.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 5 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Santoor |
| Chapter | Chapter 6 — What a Tank! |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 245 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the importance of water conservation.
- Identify traditional water storage methods in India.
- Learn about Tankas and their function.
- Recognize the unique overhead water tanks in Punjab.
- Appreciate the cultural significance of water management.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| conservation | the protection of something, especially an environmentally or culturally important place or thing, from harm or destruction. |
| centuries | periods of one hundred years. |
| storage | the action or method of storing something for future use. |
| traditional | existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established. |
| communities | a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. |
| underground | situated or operating beneath the surface of the ground. |
| overhead | situated above; in or to the sky or a higher position. |
| heritage | valued objects and qualities such as cultural tradition, to be inherited; property that is passed down from one generation to the next. |
| statue | a carved or cast figure of a person or animal, especially one that is life-size or larger. |
| aeroplane | a powered flying vehicle with fixed wings and a weight greater than that of the air it displaces. |
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Practice questions
- What is water conservation? Answer: Water conservation is the practice of protecting water resources for future use.
- Name two traditional water management methods mentioned in the chapter. Answer: Ooranis in Tamil Nadu and Panam Keni wells in Kerala are two traditional methods.
- Where are Tankas commonly found, and what is their purpose? Answer: Tankas are common in Rajasthan's Thar region and are underground tanks that store water for several months.
- What is special about the overhead water tanks in Punjab? Answer: The overhead water tanks in Punjab have unique designs, often shaped like flowers, footballs, roosters, statues, or aeroplanes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of the NCERT Class 5 English Santoor Chapter 6?
The chapter focuses on water conservation and different methods of water storage, both traditional and modern.
What are Ooranis and Panam Keni wells?
Ooranis are water storage structures in Tamil Nadu, and Panam Keni wells in Kerala are known for not drying up.
How long can Tankas store water?
Tankas, found in Rajasthan, can store enough water for six to seven months.
What is an overhead water tank?
An overhead water tank is a tank usually kept or built on roofs to store water in homes.
What makes water tanks in Punjab unique?
The overhead water tanks in Punjab's rural areas are known for their unique designs, resembling objects or animals.
Why is water conservation important?
Water conservation is important to ensure a supply of water for drinking, farming, and to protect cities from floods, as highlighted by historical practices.
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NCERT Class 5 English — Santoor — Chapter 6 — What a Tank!. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.