NCERT Class 5 The World Around Us Our Wonderous World: Chapter 8 — Clothes — How Things are Made 8
This chapter, 'Clothes — How Things are Made,' from NCERT's 'Our Wonderous World' for Class 5, explores the fascinating world of weaving and how fabrics are created. It draws parallels between human textile creation and the natural artistry of animals like the baya weaver bird, which builds intricate nests by weaving grass. The chapter explains the fundamental process of weaving, where vertical and horizontal threads are interlaced to form a unified fabric. It highlights the historical and contemporary significance of weaving, mentioning its use with natural materials like coconut fibre, palm reeds, bamboo, jute, cotton, and silk. The text also touches upon the socio-economic impact of the Indian handloom sector, emphasizing its role in employing millions, particularly women and rural artisans, and its status as a major cottage industry.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 5 |
| Subject | The World Around Us |
| Book | Our Wonderous World |
| Chapter | Chapter 8 — Clothes — How Things are Made 8 |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 256 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the basic process of weaving.
- Recognize natural examples of weaving in animal behavior.
- Identify various natural materials used for weaving.
- Appreciate the significance of the handloom industry.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Weaving | Interlacing threads or strips to create fabric. |
| Artisans | Skilled craftspeople. |
| Cottage industry | A small-scale industry, often home-based. |
| Fibre | A thread-like structure, often from plants or animals. |
| Reeds | Tall, grass-like plants with hollow stems. |
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Practice questions
- What is weaving? Answer: Weaving is the process of combining strips or threads of a material into a patterned fabric by interlacing them.
- Name two animals that weave. Answer: Birds like the baya weaver and spiders weave.
- What natural materials can be used for weaving? Answer: Natural materials like coconut fibre, palm reeds, bamboo, grass, jute, cotton, and silk can be used for weaving.
- Why is the Indian handloom sector important? Answer: It employs many people, especially women and rural artisans, and is one of the largest cottage industries.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main topic of NCERT Class 5 Chapter 8?
The chapter discusses 'Clothes — How Things are Made,' focusing on the process of weaving and the use of natural materials.
How do animals weave?
Animals like the baya weaver bird weave by interlacing materials such as grass to build nests, similar to how fabric is made.
What is the Indian handloom sector?
It is a major cottage industry in India that employs millions, particularly women and rural artisans, in weaving textiles.
What materials are used in weaving?
Natural materials like coconut fibre, palm reeds, bamboo, grass, jute, cotton, and silk are used for weaving.
What is the basic principle of weaving fabric?
Weaving involves interlacing two sets of threads: one placed vertically and the other horizontally, crossing over and under each other.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 5 The World Around Us — Our Wonderous World — Chapter 8 — Clothes — How Things are Made 8. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.