NCERT Class 8 Social Science Resource And Development(Geography): Chapter 1 — Resources
This chapter, 'Resources,' from NCERT's Class 8 Social Science (Resource and Development) textbook, introduces the concept of resources. It explains that anything satisfying a need is a resource, highlighting utility and value as key characteristics. Resources can be natural, human-made, or human. Natural resources, drawn from nature, are further classified into renewable (like solar and wind energy) and non-renewable (like coal and minerals). The chapter emphasizes that time and technology are crucial factors in transforming substances into resources, with people themselves being the most important resource due to their ideas and knowledge. It underscores the importance of responsible use of resources to prevent depletion, preparing students for understanding sustainable development.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | Social Science |
| Book | Resource And Development(Geography) |
| Chapter | Chapter 1 — Resources |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 735 |
Learning outcomes
- Define what a resource is and identify examples.
- Understand the concepts of utility and value in relation to resources.
- Differentiate between natural, human-made, and human resources.
- Classify natural resources into renewable and non-renewable categories.
- Recognize the role of time and technology in resource creation.
- Appreciate that people are the most important resource.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resource | Anything that can be used to satisfy a need. |
| Utility | Usefulness or usability of an object or substance. |
| Value | Worth of a resource, which can be economic or non-economic. |
| Patent | Exclusive right over an idea or invention. |
| Technology | Application of latest knowledge and skill in doing or making things. |
| Natural Resources | Resources drawn from nature and used with little modification. |
| Renewable Resources | Resources that get renewed or replenished quickly. |
| Non-renewable Resources | Resources with a limited stock that take thousands of years to replenish. |
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Practice questions
- What is a resource? Answer: Anything that can be used to satisfy a need is a resource.
- What gives a substance value to become a resource? Answer: Its use or utility gives it value.
- Name the two important factors that can change substances into resources. Answer: Time and technology are two important factors.
- What are natural resources? Answer: Resources drawn from nature and used without much modification are called natural resources.
- Give an example of a renewable resource and a non-renewable resource. Answer: Solar energy is a renewable resource, while coal is a non-renewable resource.
- Who is considered the most important resource? Answer: People themselves are the most important resource.
Frequently asked questions
What is the definition of a resource according to the chapter?
A resource is anything that can be used to satisfy a need.
What makes an object or substance a resource?
Utility or usability makes an object or substance a resource.
What are the two main factors that can change substances into resources?
Time and technology are the two main factors that can change substances into resources.
What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?
Renewable resources get replenished quickly, while non-renewable resources have a limited stock and take thousands of years to replenish.
Can natural resources be depleted?
Yes, careless use of certain renewable resources like water, soil, and forests can affect their stock.
What is the meaning of 'value' in the context of resources?
Value means worth. Resources can have economic value or non-economic value.
Who is considered the most important resource?
People themselves are considered the most important resource because of their ideas, knowledge, and inventions.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 Social Science — Resource And Development(Geography) — Chapter 1 — Resources. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.