NCERT Class 5 Environmental Studies Looking Around: Chapter 5 — Seeds and Seeds
This chapter, "Seeds and Seeds" from NCERT's Class 5 Environmental Studies book 'Looking Around', introduces young learners to the concept of seeds and their germination. It begins with a relatable story of Gopal soaking chana (gram) for his family, highlighting how a small quantity of seeds expands significantly when soaked and later when sprouted. The chapter includes a practical activity where students compare seed germination under different conditions: submerged in water, kept in a damp cloth, and kept dry. Through observation and discussion, students learn about the essential requirements for sprouting, such as water and air. The text also prompts reflection on common household practices like soaking grains before cooking and the benefits of eating sprouts, encouraging a deeper understanding of plant life and healthy eating habits relevant to the CBSE curriculum.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 5 |
| Subject | Environmental Studies |
| Book | Looking Around |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — Seeds and Seeds |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 444 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the process of seed germination.
- Identify the conditions necessary for seeds to sprout (water, air).
- Compare the results of seed germination under different conditions.
- Recognize the importance of soaking and sprouting food items.
- Relate scientific concepts to everyday household practices.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| soak | to immerse in water or another liquid |
| chana | gram or chickpea |
| katoris | small bowls |
| holidays | a period of time spent away from home or work |
| sprout | begin to grow; germinate |
| vessel | a container, especially one used to hold liquid |
| damp | slightly wet |
| cotton wool | a soft fluffy white material used for padding or dabbing |
| germinate | begin to grow or develop |
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Practice questions
- Why did Gopal soak more chana than his mother initially asked? Answer: Gopal soaked more chana because he thought two small bowls would not be enough for eight people.
- What did Gopal's mother plan to do with the soaked chana? Answer: She planned to cook half of them and leave the other half to sprout for her aunt.
- What are the three bowls used in the activity, and what is placed in each? Answer: Bowl 1: Chana with water. Bowl 2: Chana with a damp cloth/cotton wool. Bowl 3: Dry chana.
- In which bowl did the seeds sprout, and why? Answer: The seeds sprouted in Bowl 2 because they had water and air, and the damp cloth kept them moist.
- Why is it important to keep the cotton wool or cloth damp in the activity? Answer: It is important to keep it damp to provide the seeds with the necessary moisture to sprout.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main topic of NCERT Class 5 EVS Chapter 5?
The chapter 'Seeds and Seeds' focuses on seed germination, the conditions required for it, and the practical aspects of soaking and sprouting.
What are the essential requirements for seeds to sprout?
Seeds need water and air to sprout. Moisture from the damp cloth or water is crucial, and they also need access to air.
Why did Gopal's mother tie the chana in a wet cloth?
She tied the chana in a wet cloth to keep them moist, allowing them to sprout for her aunt to eat.
What happens to seeds when they are soaked in water for a long time?
When soaked, seeds absorb water and swell up, significantly increasing in volume, as seen with Gopal's chana.
What is the difference between Bowl 1 and Bowl 2 in the activity?
In Bowl 1, seeds are submerged in water, while in Bowl 2, they are kept moist with a damp cloth. Bowl 2 allows for better air circulation.
Why are sprouts considered healthy?
The chapter mentions that doctors recommend eating sprouts, implying they are healthy, likely due to increased nutritional value after germination.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 5 Environmental Studies — Looking Around — Chapter 5 — Seeds and Seeds. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.