NCERT Class 5 Environmental Studies Looking Around: Chapter 12 — What if it Finishes...?
This chapter, 'What if it Finishes...?', from NCERT's Class 5 Environmental Studies book 'Looking Around', uses a bus journey narrative to explore the reliance on vehicles and fuels like petrol and diesel. Students observe different vehicles on the road, noting the sounds, smoke, and potential pollution. The chapter prompts discussions on fuel consumption, the effects of smoke and noise pollution, and road safety. It also touches upon the concept of limited resources by mentioning petrol pumps and the possibility of fuel shortages. The text encourages students to reflect on their own travel habits and the environmental impact of vehicles, fostering an understanding of sustainable practices and resource conservation crucial for CBSE learning.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 5 |
| Subject | Environmental Studies |
| Book | Looking Around |
| Chapter | Chapter 12 — What if it Finishes...? |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 422 |
Learning outcomes
- Identify different types of vehicles and their fuel requirements.
- Understand the sources and effects of air and noise pollution from vehicles.
- Discuss road safety rules and responsible travel habits.
- Recognize the importance of conserving fuel resources.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stepwell (baoli) | An ancient type of Indian subcontinent water storage system and bathing structure. |
| Vehicles | Machines, such as cars, buses, or trains, that are used for transporting people or goods. |
| Highway | A major road, typically connecting large towns or cities. |
| Traffic | The movement of vehicles, people, etc., along roads or in a particular area. |
| Coughing | Expelling air from the lungs with a sudden, sharp sound. |
| Smell | A distinctive scent or odor. |
| Tractor | A powerful motor vehicle with large wheels, used for pulling farm machinery. |
| Petrol | A volatile flammable liquid derived from petroleum, used as fuel in internal-combustion engines. |
| Diesel | A liquid fuel that is derived from petroleum and used in diesel engines. |
| Smoke | A visible suspension of carbon or other particles in air, typically resulting from the burning of a substance. |
| Noise | A loud or unpleasant sound. |
| Petrol Pump | A place where fuel (petrol, diesel) is sold for vehicles. |
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Practice questions
- What did the children count on the road during their bus journey? Answer: They counted bicycles, buses, cars, and motorcycles.
- What problems can smoke from vehicles cause? Answer: Smoke from vehicles can cause coughing and breathing problems.
- What is a stepwell (baoli)? Answer: A stepwell (baoli) is an ancient water storage system and bathing structure.
- Why was there a long queue at the petrol pump? Answer: There was a long queue at the petrol pump because many vehicles were waiting to get fuel.
- What are the two main fuels mentioned for vehicles in the chapter? Answer: The two main fuels mentioned are petrol and diesel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of NCERT Class 5 EVS Chapter 12?
The chapter explores our dependence on vehicles and fuels like petrol and diesel, and the potential problems if these resources finish, including pollution and health issues.
What are the different types of vehicles mentioned in the chapter?
The chapter mentions bicycles, buses, cars, motorcycles, and tractors.
What problems are associated with vehicles mentioned in the chapter?
Problems include noise pollution from horns and air pollution from smoke, which can cause coughing and breathing difficulties.
What is a stepwell (baoli)?
A stepwell (baoli) is an ancient Indian structure for water storage and bathing.
What is the significance of the petrol pump scene?
The petrol pump scene highlights the demand for fuel and the possibility of long waits, hinting at the finite nature of these resources.
What are the key learning outcomes for students from this chapter?
Students learn about vehicle types, fuels, pollution effects, road safety, and the importance of resource conservation.
Related resources
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 5 Environmental Studies — Looking Around — Chapter 12 — What if it Finishes...?. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.