NCERT Class 9 Science Exploration: Chapter 3 — 3. Tissues in Action
This chapter, '3. Tissues in Action,' from NCERT's Class 9 Science Exploration book, delves into the fundamental concepts of biological tissues. It explains that life begins with cell division, leading to specialized cells forming tissues, organs, and organ systems in multicellular organisms. The chapter highlights the 'division of labour' principle, where different tissues perform specific functions, increasing efficiency. It contrasts plant and animal tissues, noting plants' fixed nature and need for rigidity (cell walls), while animals' flexibility aids locomotion. The text also introduces meristematic tissues responsible for plant growth, differentiating between apical meristems for length and lateral meristems for girth. This chapter is crucial for understanding life processes and the structural basis of function in living organisms for CBSE students.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 9 |
| Subject | Science |
| Book | Exploration |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — 3. Tissues in Action |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 603 |
Learning outcomes
- Define tissue and explain its importance in multicellular organisms.
- Differentiate between plant and animal tissues based on structure and function.
- Identify different types of plant tissues responsible for growth (meristematic tissues).
- Understand the concept of division of labour in organisms.
- Relate tissue structure to its specific function.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Tissue | A group of similar cells (in structure) that work together to perform a specific function. |
| Multicellular organism | An organism that consists of more than one cell. |
| Unicellular organism | An organism that consists of only one cell. |
| Division of labour | The specialization of different groups of cells or tissues to perform specific functions. |
| Cell wall | A rigid outer layer found in plant cells that provides structural support and protection. |
| Meristematic tissue | Plant tissue composed of actively dividing cells responsible for growth. |
| Apical meristem | Meristematic tissue located at the tips of roots and shoots, responsible for increase in length. |
| Xylem | Plant tissue that transports water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. |
| Phloem | Plant tissue that transports food (sugars) from the leaves to other parts of the plant. |
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Practice questions
- What is a tissue? Answer: A tissue is a group of cells that are similar in structure and work together to perform a specific function.
- Why are plant and animal tissues different? Answer: Plant and animal tissues differ because plants are fixed and need rigidity, while animals are mobile and require flexibility. Their modes of nutrition and growth patterns also necessitate different tissue types.
- What is the function of meristematic tissue? Answer: Meristematic tissue is responsible for growth in plants as it consists of actively dividing cells.
- Name the tissues responsible for transport in plants. Answer: Xylem transports water and minerals, and phloem transports food.
Frequently asked questions
What is the basic unit of life?
The cell is the basic unit of life.
What is a tissue in multicellular organisms?
A tissue is a group of similar cells working together to perform a specific function.
Why do plants have cell walls?
Plant cells have cell walls to provide rigidity and strength, helping them stay firm and upright.
What is the role of meristematic tissue in plants?
Meristematic tissue contains actively dividing cells and is responsible for plant growth, such as increasing length and girth.
How do plants and animals differ in their growth patterns?
Plants grow continuously in specific regions due to meristematic tissues, while animal growth is more uniform and limited.
What are xylem and phloem?
Xylem and phloem are plant vascular tissues; xylem transports water and minerals, while phloem transports food.
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NCERT Class 9 Science — Exploration — Chapter 3 — 3. Tissues in Action. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.