Social Studies 10

Lesson Activities of Polar Zone

6.7 FACTS Seal is a mammal like a whale, has a thick layer of oily fat under its skin which

to Understand helps to keep its body warm in the freezing water.

The polar zone is extremely cold. So

the population here is sparse, a very

few people are living there. They are

mostly nomadic. Northern Canada

and northern part of Eurasia have

indigenous people called Inuits,

the Eskimos of Greenland and

Alaska, Lapps of Scandinavia. Their

traditional housing is an Igloo in

the winter and tents made up of

seal skins called Tupiks in summer.

Fishing, hunting and collecting

the furs of animals are their main Inuits

economic activities. They trap the

fur bearing animals like polar foxes, polar bear, reindeer, etc. for meat, skin, fur, etc.

Due to the extreme cold climate
there are no agricultural activities
in the region. Lifestyle is far from
modernization but the countries
like Canada, Russia and many
European countries are trying to
modernize the lifestyle of their
people. People in this region live
comfortably in wooden houses
having cosy rooms, wear modern
woollen clothes instead of fur, and
people involve less in hunting by
using traditional tools.

There is subarctic evergreen Do You Know
coniferous forest extends from
Canada to Russia, known as Taiga A penguin is a flightless bird that swims. Its small
forest. It has high economic value feathers help to keep its body warm by keeping
Lumbering is the chief economic the water out.
activity during winter. People cut
down the pine trees and transport
them to the pulp mills to make
paper.

201 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

There is no permanent settlement in Antarctic region but researchers and scientists
go there for different geographical research work. Temperature is far below freezing
point and the winter is dark and extremely cold. Penguin is the bird live in this climate
region. They live in groups and eat small fishes.

Science station, Antarctica

Activities

a. The pictures below show the situation of Inuits 50 years ago and that of now.

i. What do you think are they doing?

ii. What is the thing they are using?

b. Organize an interaction programme with your teacher and discuss the
vegetation found in the Taiga region.

c. Fur bearing animals living in the polar region are in danger. Is it necessary to
protect them? How can we take benefits from such animals?

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 202

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:
1. What are the major economic activities of the people living in the polar region?

Explain.
2. What is an Igloo and the Tupiks? Who use it?
3. Mention the reason that penguins are found only in Antarctica.
4. Compare the lifestyle of the people living in the Himalayan region of Nepal with

the people of the Polar region. Prepare a note.
5. Explain the economic importance of Taiga.
6. Describe briefly the lifestyle of people living in the cold region.
7. What sorts of changes have occurred now in the lifestyle of people of the polar

region? Explain.
8. Why has Antarctica become the centre of attraction for many scientists and

researches?
9. With the help of Atlas find out the countries that lie in the polar zone and show

them in an outline map of the world.

iCommun ty Work
Divide the class into two groups and ask one group to compare the similarities between
Taiga forest and forest in the Himalayan region of Nepal and another group to find out the
differences in these forests. Prepare a report and present it in your class.

203 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lesson Natural Vegetation and Animals
in the World
6.8

FACTS Wolves are the top predators of the Arctic tundra and polar beans dominate the
frozen water deeper in. Seals, killer whales, sea lions, walruses and narwhals can
to Understand all be commonly spotted feeding on the fish in the Arctic Circle. The animals in
Antarctica live on a very carnivorous diet.

Source: National Geography

Interrelationship between Climate, Vegetation and Animals

The types of natural vegetation and animals are largely determined by the climate of
the region. The growth and development of natural vegetations and wildlife depends
upon climate features like temperature, heat of the sun moisture and rainfall.
Evergreen forests are found in the tropical region and coniferous forests are found
in the cold region. The vegetation of the equatorial climate is different from the
vegetation of the tropical monsoon climate. The Temperate zone has mixed forest of
deciduous and coniferous trees. Animals are determined by the climate and natural
vegetation available in a particular region

In the world three major types of forest are found. They are described below:

Evergreen Forest

Evergreen forests are found in the tropical climate. The region receives high rainfall
more than 200 cm throughout the year. There forests are found in the equatorial
region. It has hot and wet climate throughout the year. High temperature and plenty
of rainfall support the growth of dense forests with hard wood, tall threes which are
always green. Thick tall, strong, evergreen trees like sal, sisau, rose, khayar, teak,
rubber, bamboo, etc. are found here. Tropical forest is found in the largest area in the
Amazon basin of South America, the Congo basin of Central Africa and parts of the
Malay Archipelago. Animals like elephants, monkeys, lemurs, bears, rhinos, pythons,
crocodiles, etc. and different species of birds like horn bills, parrots, etc. are found
here.

Deciduous Forest

Deciduous forests are found in the area of average rainfall with 100 cm per annum.
The deciduous forests are grown in the temperate zone above the tropical forest and
below the coniferous forests. The trees shed their leaves in winter and new leaves
are grown in summer. Such trees are oak, beech, maple, etc. common animals found
in the deciduous forest are deer, gray, squirrels, mice, sparrow, crow, etc. and many
types of insects. Some animal's migrate to south in winter.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 204

Coniferous Forest

The Evergreen coniferous forests are found in the area where average rainfall is
50 cm per year. The trees bear cone and have needle-shaped leaves. The forests found
in areas that have long winters and moderate to high annual rainfall. The northern
Eurasian coniferous forest is called the Taiga. This forest is found in Canada, Norway
and Russia, Pines, Spruces, Firs and birch are the dominant trees in coniferous
forests. Snow Leopard, Red Fox, Snowshoe hare, Great horned owl, etc.

Activities

a. Discuss the climatic effects on vegetation found in your locality.
b. Write the name of any ten types vegetation found in your locality.

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:
1. Differentiate between the evergreen forest and deciduous forest with suitable

examples.
2. Coniferous forest has high economic value. Justify the statement.
3. All three kinds of natural vegetation found in Nepal. Justify the statement with

the name of vegetation found in Nepal.
4. What are the adverse effects of climate on natural vegetation? Write in a

sentence.
5. With reference to several vegetation zones and climate zones, describe how

climate controls the features of vegetation.
6. Show the interrelationship between climate, vegetation and the animals.

iCommun ty Work
Find out the active organization working for the conservation of forest. Ask their objectives,
aims and programmes for conservation of forest and bio-diversity. Prepare a report on the
basis of your investigation and present it in your class.

205 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lesson Effects of Diverse Climate and
Topography on World Lifestyle
6.9

FACTS Climate affects human health on many levels. Short-term changes in climate
such as heat, waves and flood can seriously impact health. These changes can
to Understand also produces unhealthy water and even deplete a regions food supply. Flood can
contaminated crops and water, increasing the likelihood of food borne and water-
borne illness. So, the effects of climate may be positive or negative.

We know that climate has direct impact on natural vegetation. Climate, natural

vegetation and topography have remarkable impact on human settlement and their

economic activities as well. In the

polar zone developed countries like

Canada and Eurasia lies where the

Inuits and Eskimos live primitive

and nomadic life. Fishing, hunting

and collecting fruits by using

traditional tools are their main

economic activities and making

clothes from skin of seal fish, making

Tupiks and searching and fruits are Eskimos
their activities for livelihood.

Most of the people living in Americans
temperate climate of Europe,
North America and Asia are much
developed, civilized and educated
in comparison to other parts of
the country. Most of the scientific
inventions and discoveries and
economic development had been
and have been done by the people
of the same region. World's biggest
and modern economic and physical
developmental activities are also
being carried out in this area.

The Red Indian of the Amazon Basin and the Pigmies of Guinea are still living
traditional lifestyle. Their life passes by hunting with spears and roaming here and
there and there being far away from modern development.

Climate and topographical diversities have direct effects on human life Aspects of
food habit, civilization, attire, occupation religion, culture, development activities,

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 206

economic activities, etc. have Red Indian
been affected from it. The people
who are living in cold region and
temperate region are laborious,
courageous, active and patient
because of natural challenges
they face difficulties in their
daily life. Lifestyle and human
nature is different in tropical
and plain land form. There is
less challenging lifestyle in
Terai. The difference of lifestyle
in the mountainous, the hilly
and the Terai region in Nepal
are due to the impact of climate
and topography. Similarly,
due to the effect of climate
and topography the lifestyle
of the polar region and the
equatorial region are backward
as compared to the other regions of the world.

Even the rites and rituals of Hindu, Buddhist, Islam and other religions are influenced

by topographical and climate diversity. For example, Islam religion originated in the

desert region of Saudi Arabia. Hence, while constructing Mosque the use of sand is

almost compulsory. Similarly, the followers of Islam use costumes that can protect

them against the heat of the sun and are loose for good air circulation. The Muslims

wear plains and white clothes

to protect from the scorching

heat of the Sun and to reflect Do You Know
the sun's rays. Here, they get
their head shaved and wear

netted cap called "koofi" to

get coolness by drying sweat An apparent force caused by the earth's rotation. The
and they keep beard to protect Coriolis force is responsible for deflecting winds
their skin. Islam followers are towards the right in the northern hemisphere.
not much positive towards the

Sun due its extreme heat, so

they worship the moon as they get coolness from it. Therefore, they have the moon in

their flags too. They do not respect the Sun which can be understood by the month-

long Ramadan festival. The climate and geographical diversities are also the bases of

other religions too.

207 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Activities

a. Find out the facts about Hinduism and Christianity which are influenced by
the climate and topographical diversity and Discuss with your friends.

b. Discuss about the different lifestyle of the people living in polar region and
equatorial region.

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:

1. How are Inuits people different from Red Indians and Pigmies? Differentiate on
the basis of their settlement and lifestyle.

2. For what reason the lifestyle of the people in the Himalayan region, the hilly
region and the Terai region of Nepal are different from each other? Explain in
detail.

3. The countries of the temperate and cold climate are comparatively more
developed than other why? And how? Give suitable answer.

4. The people who are living in cold climate and temperate region are laborious,
courageous, patient and active. Justify the statement.

5. "The rites and rituals of religions are influenced by topographical and climatic
diversity." Justify the statement.

iCommun ty Work
There might be different religions groups in your community Talk to most experienced people
of different groups. Use the following questions to get the various information about the
religion.

i) Which religion do you follow?

ii) In which place did the religion originate?

iii) Who was the founder of your religion?

iv) What are the things that you should do or shouldn't do in accordance with your religion?

v) What are the major festivals that are observed?

vi) What are the best parts of your religion which make yourself very proud to be the
follower of this religion? Now compare the special features of different religions.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 208

Lesson North America

6.10 FACTS North America's varied landscape features many natural wonders. It has deep
canyons, such as Copper canyon in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Denali
to Understand the continents highest peak stands at 6,194 m within Denali National Park and
preserve in the US state of Alaska. Yellowstone National Park in the US states
of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho has some of the world's most active geysers.
Canada's Bay of Fund has the greatest tidal ranges in the world. The great lakes
form the planets largest area of fresh water. The Grand Canyon, the second
deepest George in the world lies in North America. It is made by river Colorado.
There are three major desert regions of North America. They are Sonoran, Mojave
and Chihuahuan. The Mississippi river at 3,730 km long is one of the longest river
systems in the world and drains all or parts of 31 US states.

Source: National Geography

Physical Map of North America
North America lies in the Western Hemisphere. The continent lies between 8°N
and 82° N latitude and 52°W and 172° W longitudes, it means it extends from the

209 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

tropical zone to the frigid zone. The Panama Canal separates the southern part from
South America and Asia from the Bering Strait in the north-west. The Pacific and
the Atlantic Ocean encircle the continent from other direction. It stretches from the
Torrid Zone (tropical zone) to the polar zone. Hence, the continent has diversified
climate, flora and fauna.

Political Map of North America

Do You Know

North America is also known as the New World because before Christopher
Columbus's discovery in 1492 AD the continent was unknown to Europe. After

the discovery the Europeans gave the name " New World" to the continent.

Climate

The continent has experienced all types of climate. The Southern part has hot
climate, the middle or Central plain has the desert type of Climate whereas in the

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 210

northern part there is cold

climate. The central region Do You Know
has extreme type of climate,
the Prairies has temperate

grassland type of climate. The

western part of Canada, such Denali is the new name of Mt. Mc Kinley officially
as California and the areas of changed in 2015.
the St. Lawrance River receive

rainfall in winter season due

to westerlies. The South-east

part of the USA receives rainfall in summer season with thunderstorms and has high

chances of having cyclonic rain.

Physical Structure

Physically, North America can be divided into three regions: Western Mountain
Range Central Lowlands and Eastern Highlands.

Western Mountain Range

The western part of North America is the mountainous region which runs from
Alaska in the north to the Panama Canal in the South which is called the Rocky
Mountain Range. It is a young fold mountain range made of new rocks which are
similar of the Rocky mountain range 4800 km. It consists of various land forms like
plateaus, valleys, plains and gorges. Mt. Mc Kinlay (6190 m) is the highest peak in
North America.

Grand Canyon (1800 m) is the deepest gorge of the region. The Death Valley on the
banks of the Colorado River also lies in this region.

Central Lowland

The central lowland also known as the Great Plains runs from the Hudson Bay in the
north to the Gulf of Mexico in the South. The majority of areas consist of river drains
around the Mississippi river and its tributaries. This land is called Prairies Grassland.
This region produces a large amount of wheat and other food grains. Therefore, it is
called as the Bread Basket of the World. The northern part which lies in Canada
is drier than the southern part. The Great plains are also rich in oil deposits and
natural gas.

The Eastern highlands

The Eastern highlands are the older mountain ranges in North America. This region
includes the Appalachian Mountains, the Atlantic coastal plain, Canadian shield
including Laurentian Shield in the middle of the continent. The coastal areas of
Canadian Shield and the Appalachian Mountains range have plain areas with high
population density and the city areas.

211 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Rivers and Lakes

The Mississippi river (3730

km) is one of the longest river

system in the continent.

The major rivers of North

America are river Missouri,

Arkansas, Rio Grande,

St. Lawrence, Yukon and

Colorado. Many rivers

originate from the Rocky

Mountain and flow towards

east through fertile plain

land. There are important

lakes in North America. They

are Great bear, Great slave, Mississippi river
Superior, Huron, Michigan

Nipigon Winnipeg, Great

salt, Erie and Ontario, Niagara falls is the world famous waterfall which lies between

the Canada and United States. There are some glacial lakes in the northern side.

Vegetation

The Northern part of North America is very cold and humid. So, tundra vegetation
is found there. Just below, there coniferous evergreen forest is found which is known
as Taiga. The forest gradually disappears towards the north as the temperature
cools down and the Frigid Zone begins. Vast grassland called Prairies stretches in
the middle part or the around the Gulf of Mexico has evergreen thick forest, there is
temperate deciduous forest in the south-east and areas around St. Lawrence River.

Activities

a. Locate the place mention below in an outline map of North America.

The Rocky Mountain range, Appalachian Mountain range, Prairies, Mississippi
river, Great lake, Hudson bay, Death Valley, Panama canal, Taiga Forest area,
Winter rainfall area, Mt. Logan, Mt. Elbert, Mt,Whitney, Montreal, Grand
canyons, Laurentian Shield.

b. With the help of an Atlas locate the cyclonic area in North America.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 212

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:
1. What do you mean by Prairies? Write down the importance of Prairies.
2. The northern coniferous forest of North America is boon to the continent. Justify

the statement
3. Write any four importance of Tundra vegetation.
4. Rocky Mountain range has increased its potential in tourism. Give reasons.
5. Describe the climate and vegetation of North America.
6. Give geographical reasons for the following statements.
i. There is coniferous forest in Canada
ii. The Southwest California is a dry area.
iii. The Rocky mountain Range is far ahead from tourism points of view.
iv. There is high population density in the St. Lawrence area

iCommun ty Work
Compare the vegetation found in your locality with the vegetation North America. What
similarities and differences you find, prepare a report and present it in your class.

213 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lesson Social and Economic Activities
of North America
6.11

FACTS The buffalo was an essential part of Native American life, used in everything from
religious rituals to teepee constructions. Tepee is a cone shaped tent, traditionally
to Understand made of animal skins upon wooden poles.

North America has become the centre of attraction for today's
world. Many European people migrated to North America
after Christopher Columbus discovered America in 1492 AD.
They established their domination over indigenous people of
America.

Canada teepee

Canada is the second largest country in the world. Most of
the native people who live in the northern part of Canada are
called Inuits and Eskimos, Besides, there are people who have
migrated from Britain and France and other Asian countries.
French and English are the official languages of Canada. The
Per Capita Income of Canada is $ 43,248. The main economic
activities of Canada are as follows:

Forest

About 49 percent of land area is covered with coniferous forest.
It is very useful for pulp, paper, plywood and other furniture
Lumbering is the main economic activities. Local rivers are
used to transport logs and wood to bring down them in the city
area.

Mines and Minerals

Canada is extremely rich in minerals. The continent provides large quantities of most
of minerals. The important minerals, useful to modern industry are coal, iron, gold,
copper; nickel, zinc, platinum, petroleum and natural gas are abundantly available.
Many people are involved in mining business.

Agriculture

About 15 percent land in Canada is used for growing crops. Animal farming is one of
the major parts of agriculture. Pigs, cows, and sheep are reared for meat and milk.
There is extensive cultivation of wheat in Prairies the largest exporter of wheat in

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 214

the world. A lot of potatoes are grown in the eastern part and fruits in the western
sections. Apples are the main fruits grown. The fishing in ocean is very advanced, as
Canada has a large coastal area.

USA

The USA is the most developed countries in North America. It
is the country which has accommodated people emigrated from
almost all the continents of the world. The process of immigration
to the USA has started 200-300 years ago. Nowadays also the
process is going on. Approximately, 12 percent inhabitants are
black and their forefather were brought to the USA from Africa.

The USA is one of the most prosperous nations with the Per
Capita Incomes $ 55,836. The major economic activities of the
country are diversified.

Agriculture

All sorts of agricultural activities take place in the USA. The food crops grown in this
country is much more than the domestic requirements. The excess of food grown is
exported.

Cotton, sugarcane and paddy are grown in the south east gulf.
Cattle and pig rearing is done in the Great lakes region.
The Appalachian Mountain range area is famous for fruits, tobacco, almond and

peanuts production.
Central plain land is used for producing food grains such as wheat, maize,

soyabean, etc.
Fishing is famous in coastal areas.

Mines and Minerals

Iron, coal, copper, petroleum, and natural gas, etc. are major minerals found in the
US. Gulf areas, Mississippi bank and Alaska are famous for petroleum.

Tourism

Many tourists from the world come to visit to enjoy its natural beauty. Disney land,
the Grand Canyons, NASA station and Hollywood are famous tourist attraction. More
than 20 million people visit USA every year.

Industry and Service

Many industries and business located in the United States operate globally. Both
service oriented and production oriented industries have flourished in the USA.

215 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

The USA is a trading nation. Most of the people are involved in import and export
business Mexico exports manufactured goods and petroleum.

Activities

a. Make a chart of the major social and economic activities of North America in
points, paste it on display board.

b. Draw an outline map of USA and show the following facts.
Petroleum production Area, The Mississippi River, Gulf of Mexico, Alaska,

Rocky Mountain, the Great Lake

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:

1. Explain the social condition of North America.
2. Make a list of Economic activities of North America
3. The Per Capita Income of Canada is very high. Give reasons.
4. Why are the eastern regions of Canada and the USA more developed than the

western region? Explain.
5. "The USA is one of the major tourist destinations." Justify the statement.
6. Why is the economic condition of North America good.
7. Make a list of main natural resources available in this continent. How is the

social lifestyle of the people in Canada?
8. People in Canada and the USA practise commercial agriculture. What should

Nepal learn from these countries to change its traditional way of farming to
commercial farming?
9. Nepal has high possibilities in tourism what should Nepal learn from the USA
and Canada to develop in tourism?

Project Work

Find out the major facts about Canada and the USA with the help of the internet and
present them in PowerPoint.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 216

Lesson South America

6.12 FACTS The largest city of South America is Sao Paulo in Brazil with more than 20 million
inhabitant (2014 AD) Sao Paulo is also one of the 10 biggest cities in the world.
to Understand Similarly, the smallest country in South America is Suriname. The country is one
of the 10 most sparsely populated countries in the world.

Physical Map of South America Dynamic Social Studies - Book X
217

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X Political Map of South America
218

South America is the fourth largest continent of the world. It extends from 12° North to
55° South latitude and 35° West, to 80° West longitude. There is the Andes mountain
range (7000 km) extends from North to South in the Western part of the continent.
Mt. Aconcagua is the highest peak (6960 m) of the Andes mountain range. There are
many peaks more than 6000 m height and highlands in this mountainous range.

The Panama Canal separates the continent from North America in the north, the
Pacific Ocean in the West the Atlantic Ocean in the East and the Caribbean Sea lies
in the North-east. Northern rivers end in the Caribbean Sea and southern rivers
end in the Atlantic Ocean. It has approximately 300 million population which is
about 6 percent of the total world population. Broadly, the continent is divided into
three physical regions. They are Eastern Highlands, Central Lowlands and Western
Mountain range.

Eastern Highlands Brazilian Highland

Eastern highlands is also called
Brazilian Highland because a
vast area of Brazil is composed of
highlands. Guiana highland lies
in Guiana and Venezuela. These
highland from very old rock bed
and older than Andes. The Atacama
Desert is considered the driest desert
in the world. The average rainfall is
about 1mm a year and some parts
of Atacama have never had rain
recorded in history.

Central Lowlands

The Central Lowland lies in between the Western Mountain Region and the Eastern
highlands. Amazon basin, Gran Chaco and Pampas are its three parts from north to
south. The Amazon River basin is made by the Amazon river, the largest watershed in
the world. The Parana River includes Iguazu falls. The Paraguay River basin supplies
water to the plains biome, or Pampas of South America. It has rich, fertile soil and
predictable rainfall pattern. The north most lowland Llanos is made by the Orinoco
River.

Western Mountain Region

World's longest mountain range, the Andes, lies to the west of South America which
extends from north to the south covering almost 7000 km distance. The Atacama
Desert lies in the middle of the mountain range. The highest mountain Mt. Aconcagua
(6960m) lies in Argentina. There are many volcanic peaks in the mountain range.

219 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lake Titicaca is the most navigable lake of South America lies in highest altitude.
The other major peaks are Mt. Cotopaxi, Mt Chimborazo, Coropuna, etc. Patagonia
region of Argentina and Chile consist of lower elevation plateaus and glaciers.

Climate

There are different climate belts. The Amazon basin has the equatorial type of climate.
It contains thick evergreen forest known as Selvas. The Amazon Basin receives
heavy and regular rainfall. In and around the Atacama Desert, there is desert type
of climate temperate grassland expanded at the middle of the southern part. There
is vast grassland which is called Pampas and it lies in Argentina and Paraguay. Cold
climate found in the southern ends of Argentina and Chile and the highest elevations
of the Andes. In coastal region pleasant and suitable climate is found. Overall the
climate of South America is diversified, extreme to moderate.

Vegetation

There is tropical evergreen forest found in Amazon Basin which is also known as
tropical evergreen rainforest. It is known as Selvas. Tall trees of hardwood are found
in this region. The plants in the alpine biome are small and their leaves are stiff
and strong to protect them from frost and drought. The largest herb in the world,
Puya raimondii is known as the queen of Andes which can live for 100 years and can
grow to more than 9 metres tall. Central and south-east area is covered by grassland
known as Pampas. Desert area has few desert plants.

Activities

a. Make a list of mountains lies in the Andes mountain range with the help of
an Atlas.

b. Write a letter to your friend living in Brazil for studies mentioning Tropical
Rainforest of the Amazon Basin and its advantages to Brazil.

c. Insert the following facts in an outline map of South America.
Andes Mountain range, Amazon basin, Brazilian, Highland, Atacama Desert,

Selvas, Pampas, Cape Horn, Galapagos Island, lake Titicaca, Angel Falls, Llanos,
Campos, Rio-de Janeiro, Peru, Bolivia.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 220

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:
1. Explain the three major physical regions of South America.
2. Which is the world's longest mountain range? Mention its length.
3. Name the highest peak of the Andes mountain range.
4. Explain the climate and vegetation of South America.
5. What do you mean by Selvas? How are they formed?
6. How is the Amazon River boon to South America? Explain
7. South America is known as the land of superlatives. Give reason.
8. Compare the Andes mountain range of South America with the Himalayan

region of Asia including Nepal.
9. There is a large area of grassland in South America. Write briefly about it.
10. In an outline map of South America insert the major highland, Deserts,

grasslands and mountains.

iCommun ty Work
Divide the class into different groups. Allocate the task to each group to find out the facts
about geography, climate and vegetation, separately. Write a brief description of the fact you
have chosen. Present your ideas to the class.
221 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lesson Social and Economic Activities
of South America
6.13

FACTS South American countries had a slow pace of economic development in the past.
In recent times they have undergone rapid economic development. Currently
to Understand undergoing massive growth are the economics of Argentina, Venezuela, Peru,
Brazil, Columbia and Chile. Major industries in South America is agriculture,
which encompasses a vital part of the economy, and other important industries
are fishing, natural resource, handicrafts, etc. Trade is also an integral part of the
economy.

Source: National Geography

South America was colonized after 1500 AD by the Portuguese and the Spanish from
Europe. Inca civilization collapsed due to their invasion and reckless capturing of
everything valuable. South America has European influence in social and economic
activities as it was colonized for a long period. There are indigenous inhabitants of the
Red Indians in the Amazon basin living a primitive lifestyle.

South American countries had a slow pace of economic development in the past, but
in recent times it has undergone rapid economic development due to the greatest
economic independence after the second world war. Some of the social and economic
activities of the continents have been discussed below:

Social Activities

The aborigines of South America are the
Red Indians. The Italians and the Germans
also live there. Negroes were brought there
to help in plantation in central parts of
the continent. Most of the South American
people speak Portuguese, Spanish and
English. It is the influence of European
colonization.

Economic Activities Red Indian

Agriculture

In most of the parts of South America, there are mountains, forests, deserts and
plateaus. Therefore, agriculture is poor in the region. Nevertheless the Pampas coastal
plains and the parts of the Brazilian Highlands are used immensely for farming. The

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 222

people cultivate potato, soyabean, cotton and oil seeds. Brazil is the largest producers
and exporter of coffee, cocoa and sugarcane. Argentina, Uruguay and Chile produce
large quantity of maize and wheat. Argentina exports wheat flour abroad. Paddy is
grown in South-east Brazil and Columbia.

Animal Husbandry

Pampas of Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil are

the main areas for the rearing of animals like

cattle, sheep and goats. These animals are breed

for meat, milk and wool. Argentina operates the

large animal farm called Estancia. The cowboys

known as "gauchos" look after the cattle. Sheep Sheep farming
and goat are reared in the Andes and plateaus.

Grazing animals such as sheep, Llamas, Alpacas and Vicunas, etc. are suitable in cold

climates. They are used for carrying goods. Horses are kept for transport.

Forest

Two types of forest are found in South America Selvas and Coniferous forest. Selvas
is evergreen tropical rainforest having hardwood. Coniferous forests are found in
Brazilian Highlands and Southern Chile. These trees are used for paper industries,
gums, charcoal, resin, camphor, amchona, boat, etc. Many high value of trees like
mahogany and rosewood are grown in the rain forest area. Lumbering is an economic
activity of the people. Logs and timbers are exported to foreign markets for various
purposes.

Industries

South America is not much prosperous in industries despite abundant minerals. Only
some countries have large scale manufacturing and minerals based industries, like
Brazil, Argentina and Venezuela. Brazil has iron, steel, rubber and paper industries
Venezuela extracts petroleum mainly form the lake Maracaibo.

Fishing

Fisheries are famous in Peru, Chile and Coastal areas of South America.

Tourism

The feature of superlative have contributed to
tourism activities in South America. The Andes
and the coastal region attract a large number of
tourists Lake Titicaca, Amazon forest, Coastal
plains, the Galapagos and the Angel falls
as well as diverse cultural heritages are the
valuable tourist resources of the continent.

Angel falls, Venezuela

223 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Activities

a. Compare the economic activities of Nepal and South America with examples.
b. Why do people living in the Andes region use Llama as means of

transportation? Discuss with your friends.

E ixerc se...

1. What are the major economic activities of South America? Explain
2. About 75 percent of people live in urban areas in Brazil. Compare the condition

of Nepal on the basis of the given data of Brazil.
3. Compare the similarities and differences of animals like yaks living in the

Mountainous region of Nepal and Llama of South America.
4. Explain the social and economic condition of South America.
5. Argentina is World Famous for cattle rearing. Give reason
6. What is Llama? How is it useful to the people in the Andes region?
7. Read the data given below:

Country Coffee Production in the World
South America 46%
North America 18%
Africa 19%
Asia 17%

What causes South America to produce largest amount of coffee in the world?
Explain and prepare a pie chart using the given data.

8. Brazil and Argentina are two bigger and economically important countries.
Make a list of goods these countries export.

iCommun ty Work
Compare the similarities and differences between the Andes Mountain and the Himalayan
region. Make a list in a table and present a report on the basis of collected information.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 224

Lesson Africa

6.14 FACTS • Africa continent has the second largest population in the world.
• Madagascar is then largest island in Africa and the fourth largest island in the
to Understand
world.
• The world's largest land animal is the Africa elephant.
• Africa is the home to the world's largest reptile, the Nile crocodile.

Political Map of Africa Dynamic Social Studies - Book X
225

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X Physical Map of Africa
226

Africa is the second largest continent of the world with the area of 30,221,532 Sq. Km.
It lies within the boundaries of 37° N to 35°S latitude. Africa is the only continent
which is almost divided into two equal parts by the equator. It is roughly 800 km
long from north to south. It is the continent crossed by the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N),
the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S) and the Equator (0°). The Suez Canal and Red sea
separate Africa from Asia in the north-east. The Mediterranean Sea and the strait of
Gibraltar separate it from Europe in north and north-west. In the east, there is the
Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean lies in the south. It is the second most populous
continent. There are 53 countries 12 territories and 4 autonomous states in the
continent.

Physical Features

Africa is composed of small part Do You Know
of the mountain regions, large
part of plain lands with deserts,

grassland and plateaus. There is

Atlas mountain range in the north It is estimated that first human civilization was
west of Africa. In the middle part started on the bank of the Nile River. In Egypt,
there is a small area of highland there are evidences of ancient civilization.
with some peaks. Mt. Kilimanjaro

(5,895 m) is the highest peak of

Africa. In this section, there is an extensive rift valley region from the Red Sea in

the north to the Zambezi River in the south. In this region there are many lakes

formed due to the accumulation of water in the rift valley. The Nile river (6,670 km)

originates from lake Victoria and ends in the Mediterranean Sea. Nile River is the

longest river of the world.

Great Rift Valley
The Great Rift Valley is a lowland valley which is extended from the Red Sea to
the River Zambezi. In this valley there are rift valley lakes, which are formed from
volcanoes crater. To the south east of Africa, there is small mountain range called
Drakensberg Mountains. Africa is the continent of plateaus so there are cliffs of
plateaus around the coast of seas and oceans. Similarly, there are a few islands in

227 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Africa. The largest island, Madagascar, lies to the east in the Indian Ocean. Other
islands are Mauritious, Sao Tome, Canary Island, Comoros, etc.

Climate

The climate in most parts of the

continent is unhealthy. In the Zaire

basin, the climate is equatorial type

hot and humid. The Sahara, Kalahari

and the Namib are extensive deserts.

Due to a wide variety of landscapes

most of the parts of Africa have

extreme climate. Seven different

types of climates are found in it.

The equatorial region and the Congo Sahara desert
basin have hot and wet climate.

The climate in the northern part is

extremely hot and dry due to the presence of large extended Sahara Desert. In the

south-east region there is Tropical monsoon climate. The high plateaus of South Africa,

summers are extremely hot and winters are extremely cold. The Mediterranean type

of climate is found in north-west region of Africa. Sahara desert lies to the north side

of Africa which covers one-fifth of total land of Africa.

Vegetation

There are large rain forests in central and a West Africa including much of the Congo
basin. The Savanna grassland is an important part of Africa. There are several types
of animals and birds found in this region. It is also called the "Zoo of the World." It is
protected by national parks and wildlife reserves Cape Town and Port Elizabeth fall
within this climatic region. There is pleasant type of climate and vegetation system
in the southern part of Africa.

Activities

a. "Due to the effects of structure and topography, the climatic condition of
Africa is unhealthy". Discuss with your friend with examples.

b. The Savanna region of Africa is boon of nature. Discuss and make a list of
benefits that can be acquired by Africa.

c. Fill the following facts in an outline map of Africa:

Atlas mountain range, Equator, Tropic of Cancer, Tropic of Capricorn,
Sahara desert, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Nile River, Rift Valley, Victoria Lake, and
Mt. Drakensberg

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 228

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:
1. Explain the physical structure of Africa.
2. Name the largest desert and the longest river of the world which lie in Africa.
3. African countries, such as Kenya and Tanzania have generated enough revenue

from national parks. What lessons should Nepal learn from them? Explain.
4. Explain the major climatic condition of Africa.
5. Name the highest peak of Africa. Where does it lie?
6. Why is the savanna region known as the 'Zoo of the World'? Explain.
7. Due to the varied landscapes most of the regions of Africa have extreme climate.

Justify the statement with examples.
8. There are many deserts in Africa? What are its reason?
9. The extended grasslands of the Savanna region is an important natural

resources of African continent. Make a list of the advantages Africa can take
from it.

iCommun ty Work
Compare the climate and vegetation of the Terai in Nepal with Africa. Search in the internet or
ask your teacher for detailed information and prepare a report and present it to your teacher.

229 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lesson Social and Economic Activities
of Africa
6.15

FACTS Forestry, the management of tress and other vegetation in forest is an important
economic activity in Africa. On average, forest products account for 6% of Africa's
to Understand Gross Domestic Product (GDP), more than any other continent. This is a result of
Africa's abundant forest cover with 0.8 hectares (2 acres) per person, compared
with 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres) globally. In Central and Western Africa, the forest
cover is the heaviest. The forest sector contributes more than 60% of GDP.

Source: National Geography

Africa is rich in natural resources but in terms of development it is far behind other
continents. Drought, disease, starvation, war, conflict, illiteracy and poverty are the
main problems of the continent. The social and economic activities are highly affected
by the unhealthy climatic condition and the huge area of desert. Many African nations
are suffering from AIDS that has affected the active population of Africa. Ebola virus
is also wide spread in Africa. For long, the continent remained isolated and discovered
by the Europeans very late. So, it is also called the "Dark Continent." It is diverse
continent in terms of ethnicity, culture and people's lifestyle. More than 800 races
live in Africa. The ancient civilization flourished on the bank of the Nile River. Even
today many places in Africa possesses important historical and cultural heritages.
The lifestyle of the people living in and around the forest of central Africa remained
primitive. A brief description to major social and economic activities are given below:

Social Activities Bushmen

The native people of Africa are divided
into four groups. The first group is
having dark complexion and curly
hair. They live in Ethiopia. Second
group is called Bushmen living in
the Kalahari region. They are short
and have wheatist complexion. They
live in a small group by hunting and
gathering fruits and nuts.

The third group is pygmies who live in
the equatorial region near the Congo
basin. They are very short and live a
nomadic life. They are also hunters
and gather fruits and nuts.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 230

The fourth group is the Masai and the Hausa tribes who are tall and live in Kenya
and Tanzania. They rear cattle. Other inhabitants other than African tribes are
British, Belgians, French, Dutch and Germans. The British established their colonies
in African countries.

Economic Activities

Agriculture

Most of the people living in rural areas have

adopted agriculture. But agriculture is

limited to subsistence farming. Traditional

farming is followed by the farmers. In

desert areas there is lack of fertile soil

and irrigation facilities. People grow both Agriculture practise in Africa
food crops and cash crops in arable areas

of Africa. Maize and wheat grown in the Savanna region, Egypt and South Africa,

paddy is grown in eastern tropical coast.

Similarly, cash crops like cotton, tea cocoa and coffee are grown in the Nile valley,
Uganda, Nigeria, Mozambique, Mabuli, Zaire and West. Ghana and Nigeria are the
main producers of Cocoa. Commercial farming is also developing by government with
association of multinational companies.

Minerals

There are large mines of diamond, gold, natural gas and petroleum in South Africa.
Other minerals commonly found in Africa are iron, uranium, copper etc. If African
people can utilize these mines, then it will be beneficial for development and raising
people's living standard.

Tourism

The biodiversity with majestic and

magnificent landscape attract anyone

in Africa. National parks have been

established to attract tourist and to preserve

wildlife savanna grassland of Africa is also

known as "Zoo of the World." Millions of

tourist visit these national parks. Thus,

tourism is one of the important means of

earning foreign currency in Africa. Some Tourism in Africa
of the tourist sites in Africa are Namibia,

Botswana, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Egypt, South Africa, Morocco and Tunisia.

Poor infrastructures, unskilled manpower and poor security are the major obstacles

to the tourism sector.

231 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Industries and Services

South Africa and Egypt are the most developed nations among 53 African nations.
Other countries in the coastal region are more developed than the countries in the
central region. There are more mining industries than other manufacturing industries.
Cotton mills and steel and iron industries are famous industries in the continent.

Activity

a. With the help of an Atlas, find out the places in Africa where there are
diamond mines, petroleum and gold mines. Make a list.

b. Africa is suffering from poverty, disease, drought, illiteracy and conflict. In
what ways can it be free from such problem? Discuss it with your friends.

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:

1. What are the economic activities of Africa? Explain.
2. "Africa has high feasibility in tourism." Justify the statement.
3. "Africa is known as a Dark Continent." Mention the reasons.
4. How is commercial farming practised in Africa? Describe
5. What are the reasons that Africa is not well-developed?
6. Name any four minerals exported by Africa.
7. Cairo the capital city of Egypt receives very low rainfall but it has developed a

lot. What might be the reasons? Write in points.
8. Tourism is a growing economic activity in Africa. What has contributed to the

development of tourism in Africa?
9. Which are the major ethnic groups of Africa? Explain them.
10. "Mines, minerals and tourism are the major economic resources of Africa."

Explain.

iCommun ty Work
Ask the elderly people of your community about the community 20 years ago and now. What
are the measures can be adopted to develop your community? Write a report and present it
to your classroom.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 232

Lesson North America, South America,
Africa and Nepal
6.16

FACTS Nepal-United States relations is bilateral relations. According to the 2012 US
Global Leadership Report, 41% of Nepalese people are approved of US leadership,
to Understand As of 2012, Nepalese students form the 11th largest group of International
students studying in the US representing 1.3% of all foreigners pursuing higher
education in America.

North America, South America, Africa and Nepal are in many ways similar to each
other. Similarities are found in great mountain range, grassland, rivers and climate.
Atlas and Drakensberg are the two fold mountain ranges in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro
is the highest peak of Africa. There is the Rocky Mountain Range in the western part
of North America extended from Alaska to Panama. It is also a fold mountain range
Mt. Elbert (4,401 m.) is the highest summit of the Rocky Mountain Range. The Andes
Mountain stretches from north to south along the western coast of the continent. It is
the longest mountain chain in the world lies in South America. Mt. Aconcagua is the
highest peak in this mountain range. Nepal has also the Himalayan Mountain Range
with the tallest peak in the world. The world's highest peak Mt. Everest (8,848 m) lies
in Nepal.

Mt. Elbert, North America Andes mountain, South America


Drakensberg, Africa Mt. Everest, Nepal
233
Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Do You Know Saint Lawrence, Mississippi,
Missouri and Colorado are the
major rivers of North America.

Likewise Amazon, Parana,

Fold mountains are created where two or more Paraguay of South America,
of Earth's tectonic plates are pushed together. Nile, Congo, Zambezi and Niger
rivers of Africa are also popular

rivers in the world. The Koshi,

the Gandaki and the Karnali are

the largest and popular rivers of Nepal that have great flow of water throughout the

year.

Praires of North America, Campos and Llanos of South America, Veld of Africa and
Himali Kharka of Nepal are the major grazing areas for livestock. All large number
of animals are reared in these grasslands

In terms of social and economic activities North America is very much advanced.
South American nations and Nepal to some extent are similar. Comparatively, Africa
is backward in terms of development.

Nepal has close bilateral relationships with America and Canada. The USA and

Canada are the major donor nations of Nepal. Nepal has got assistance in many

projects from these countries. Many Nepalese students go to the US and Canada

for study as well in scholarship. Many tourists visit Nepal every year from Canada

and the USA. There is close relation

of Nepal and South America. There is

Nepalese embassy in Brazil. Nepal's

diplomatic and trade relations with

South American countries have

become closer and stronger. Many

South American countries have signed

Nepal's proposal to declare her as the

"Peace Zone." This was one of the

relations Nepal has with many South

American countries. The economic

relation between Nepal and African

countries is on rise. Many Nepalese UN peace keeping Nepalese army
youths have gone to African countries

for employment purpose but there is

no authentic record of Nepalese working in African nations. Nepal has sent army and

police under the UN peace keeping force in Zaire, Burundi, Sudan, Nigeria Congo

to manage conflict and for rescue operation to the war victims. Nepal can learn a lot

from African nations on tourism and managing national parks. Nepal can also learn

about the effects of war and political instability from many African nations that are

still struggling to maintain peace and security.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 234

Activities

a. Discuss the physical structure of North America, South America and Africa.
Compare them with Nepal.

b. Make a list of grassland found in North America, South America and Africa .
located in these grasslands in the map.

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:
1. Write briefly about Nepal's relations with African Nations.
2. Name the African nations where Nepalese peace keeping forces are working.
3. Explain the physical regions of North America.
4. What are the features of Tundra Vegetation? Explain any four of them.
5. The USA and Canada are donor countries of Nepal. Describe the field of

assistance and bilateral welfare work between Nepal and these Countries.
6. Compare the similarities between Nepal and Africa.
7. Make a list of peaks of North America, South America and Africa.
8. In Nepal 67 percent people are involved in agriculture whereas in the US only 2

percent people are engaged in agriculture. Yet, the United States in one of the
major exporters of food items whereas Nepal suffers from scarcity of food. What
might be the reasons for low agricultural productivity in Nepal? Explain.

iCommun ty Work
Compare the climate of Nepal with North America, South America and Africa

Project Work

Draw a map of Nepal and locate major peaks, rivers and lakes and national parks.

235 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lesson Natural Disaster:
Earthquake and Tsunami
6.17

FACTS On Saturday, Baisakh 12, 2072 at 11:56 am 7.8 magnitude earthquake recorded
by Nepal's National Seismological Centre, struck Barpak in the historic district of
to Understand Gorkha. The catastrophic earthquake was followed by hundreds of aftershocks
including 6.8 Richater scales which struck 17 days after the big one on Baishakh
29, 2072 with the epicentre at Dolakha district. There were over 8,790 casualties
and 22,300 injuries and about 8 million people have been affected by these
earthquakes, 31 districts have been affected out of which 14 were declared
crisis-hit for the purpose of prioritizing rescue and relief operations.

Source: Nepal News

Earthquake

Earthquake is the Do You Know
shaking motion of the
earth's surface vertically

or horizontally. The ups

and downs shaking is A numerical unit used to measure the intensity or energy of
the vertical earthquake an earthquake, named after Charles F. Richter, An American

and the side by side Seismologist, who devised it in 1935. It ranges from 0-9 where

shaking is called the the magnitude above 5.5 is more supposed to be destructive.

horizontal earthquake.

Horizontal earthquake

tends to be more destructive

on the surface. To measure the

magnitude of an earthquake, an

instrument called seismograph

is used. It measures the location

of the epicentre, intensity

and speed of an earthquake.

Earthquake is measured in

Richter scale. No one can

predict how big and when the

next earthquake occurs.

The centre from where the
vibration starts inside the earth
surface is called Hypocentre. It
is the initiation point of the earthquake. The wave of earthquake spreads from this
point and we feel the vibration on the surface of the earth.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 236

Causes of Earthquake

The main causes of earthquake are as follows

i. Tectonic Movement

The surface is divided into seven plates of different shapes and sizes called
the Continental Plates. These plates are always floating in the molten mass called
mantle. The movement may cause sometime to collide, bend, fracture and overlap to
each other resulting an earthquake.

ii. Volcanic Eruption

During an eruption of a volcano, magma comes out into the surface in form of
lava which creates tremor.

Seismic Zones of the World

Although the whole earth is affected by earthquake, some geological locations are
more prone to earthquake. They are as follows:

Area around the Pacific Ocean-the Rocky Mountain Range, the Andes mountains
Range and East Asia

The Himalayan range of Asia, the Hindukush, the Sulaiman Mountain Range
of Iran, Turkey and the Alps Mountain range of Europe

Effects of Earthquake

An earthquake causes great loss of lives and property and infrastructures through
direct damage of causing landslide, flood or tidal waves. Some of the effects are given
below:

Destruction of building, roads, electricity supply, etc.
Cracking the earth's crust
Adverse effects on human and animal life
Formation for new land form like lake, small hills convert into flat land, etc.
Raising of waves in the coastal areas
Diseases, epidemics, economic crisis, hunger, theft, robbery, etc. aftermath

Casualties Caused by Earthquake in the Past

Millions of people all over the world have lost their lives due to the earthquake. Some
devastating Earthquake of Nepal are as follows:

1. The first recorded earthquake in the history of Nepal occurred in BS 1310
(7th June 1266) with 7.7 Richter scale about 30 percent of the total population

237 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

of the Kathmandu Valley were killed including then King Abhaya Malla.
Numerous building and temples of the valley entirely collapsed and some were
severely damaged.

2. In BS 1890 two major devastating earthquake occurred in Nepal with 7.8
Richter scale during the period of king Rajendra Bikram Shah. The towns of
Thimi and Bhaktapur took the burnt of the disaster, severely damaging the
housing facilities, road networks and various temples. The human casualties
were reported to be less than 500, which may be due to occurrence of two large
foreshocks.

3. Earthquake known as 'Great Nepal Earthquake' struck Nepal and its
surrounding areas around 2 pm in Magh 2, 1990. Casualty figure were highest
for any recorded earthquake in the history of Nepal. 8,519 people lost their lives
in Nepal, 1,26,355 houses were severely damaged, and 80,893 buildings were
completely destroyed.

4. A big earthquake hit Nepal on 12th Baisakh, 2072 (2015, April 25) at 11.56
AM by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake. Its centre point was in Barpak (Gorkha)
with depth of only 11 km beneath the surface of the earth. This earthquake
has destroyed a lot in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, Gorkha, Lamjung,
Chitwan, etc. and created a lots of destruction in other villages of Nepal. Ancient
tower Dharahara and other many cultural heritages which signify the history
of Nepal have been destroyed totally. More than 8,000 people were killed and
about 23,000 people were injured.

Safety Measures during an Earthquake

Earthquake occurs without any symptoms or pre-knowledge. So, we should be careful
about the possible effects of earthquake. We cannot avoid it but we can reduce the
effects of earthquake. Some of the safety measures are as follows:

Houses should be constructed with earthquake resistant technology.

Heavy items, glass items and utensils should be kept firmly in a proper place.

Stay inside the house under the beam, pillar or under the table, if you are there
already.

Do not stay under electric pole, hoarding board or near a gas cylinder, glass
window or electric switches, etc.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 238

Should keep torch, radio, mobile, phones and emergency bag with some food
stuffs and drinking water.

Should follow the drop cover hold on method.
Should remain outside for a few minutes even after the earthquake.
Inform all the family members for your well being.
Be ready for rescue operation when you feel you are safe.

Tsunami

Tsunami is another natural disaster which is taking life and property of people living
in the coastal region. The word Tsunami was developed in the late 19th century i.e. in
1896 AD and derived from two Japanese words 'Tsu' means harbour and 'nami' means
wave. Thus the etymological meaning of tsunami is the wave in the harbour.

It is a series of enormous ocean waves caused by natural force under water. The wave
sometimes reaches to a height or over 100 feet into the shore line. In December 2004,
an earthquake of 9.1 Richter scale occurred with the epicentre in the west coast of
Sumatra, Indonesia. This devastating tsunamis, along the coasts of most landmasses
bordering the Indian Ocean killed 4,00,000 people in 14 countries. It was one of the
most deadliest natural disasters recorded in the history. In March 2011, Japan was
hit by a powerful Tsunami that was triggered by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake. The
tsunami killed more than 15,894; the injured were 6,152 and 2,562 people were
missing and huge loss in properties. Tsunami can be caused by any action that creates
an abrupt disturbance.

239 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Causes

Tsunamis are the results of the movements of the earth under the sea. The major
causes are as follows:

Earthquake

Tsunami waves are mainly created due to the large underwater earthquake in seas
or the oceans. According to the seismologists only earthquake with magnitudes more
than 7 Richter scale can produce a major tsunami.

Landslide

Submarine landslide or coastal landslide usually caused by an earthquake also causes
tsunami. Due to ice falls, rock falls or underwater landslide large portion of water gets
displaced which results causing tsunami.

Effects

Huge loss of life and properties
Destruction of infrastructures of development
Possibilities of spread of epidemics and diseases
Cracks can be created in earth's crust and materials can come out from inside

the earth.
Sources of water can emerge or disappear.

Safety Measures

Keep in touch with the latest information about tsunami.

Help injured or trapped persons. Give first aid where appropriate.

Immediately evacuate the tsunami region and move to a higher safe area.

Listen to the radio or television to be updated with the latest emergency
information.

Make sure that your house is in safe area. If not, be familiar with the evacuation
orders, keep in touch with the warning signals.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 240

Activities

a. You may have listed or watched about tsunami in radio or T.V. on the basis of
collected information differentiate between earthquake and tsunami.

b. Fill the given table:

Natural Disaster Causes Effects
Earthquake

Tsunami

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:

1. What is an earthquake?
2. What kind of precautions should be adopted to be safe from earthquake and

tsunami?
3. In what ways can the destruction from the earthquake can be minimized?
4. Write a letter to your foreign friend sharing your experience of the earthquake

of 12th Baishakh 2072.
5. How does seismograph measure the magnitude of an earthquake? Describe the

process with the help of a diagram.
6. Differentiate between :
i) Epicentre and hypocentre
ii) Vertical earthquake and Horizontal earthquake

iCommun ty Work
When did you feel first earthquake? Remember the incident and when did your eldest member
of your family feel the tremor? Get information and compare the experiences and make a
report and present it in your class.

241 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lesson Different Methods of Tracing Map and
Modern Applicable Map Technology
6.18

FACTS "Discovering the world through GIS", is the theme of Nepal GIS society. It is
dedicated since 1995 for :
to Understand
• Professional Networking • Awareness and advocacy

• Applied and empirical research • GIS, RS and GPS training

• Consultancy service.

Map is a picture or representation of the earth's surface, showing how things are
related to each other by distance, direction and size. Cartography is the scientific
method of drawing map. It helps us to communicate spatial information effectively.

There are lot of changes in tracing a map in a traditional way due to the advancement
of information and technology. Some of the methods of tracing maps are discussed
below:

i) Free Tracing Method

We can trace a map observing the map in depth or just observing superficially.
Even if it is difficult to prepare a prefect map. We can prepare a perfect map in
repeated efforts. Most of the people use this method for the first time.

Dynamic Social Studies - Book X 242

ii) Carbon copy method

In this method a readymade map can be copied on
a sheet of paper with the help of carbon paper.

iii) Tracing method Carbon copy method

The lower base map of the glass has to be pasted
on the lower part of the glass fitted table installing a
tube light. Thereafter, plain paper of appropriated size
is put on the upper part of the table. After the tube light
is switched on, the shape of the map is visible clearly on
plain paper due to its light.

iv) Photocopy Method

The base map is printed using a photocopy
machine. No efficiency is acquired from it except fulfilling
its requirement.

v) OHP (Over Head Projector)

With the help of OHP machine a map made on Photocopy method
transparent plastic is shown on the wall and a map is
drawn. This method is out of use these days.

vi) Stencil Method

In this method an essential outline map is drawn in the beginning. Therefore
necessary copies are made through the lithography using a stencil machine. This
method is also out of use these days.

vii) Square Method

Squares of the same size are drawn on plain paper and base map is drawn with
the help of pencil. We have to remember the rooms in which how many lines including

243 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

the borders of the base map fall. Lines of the map are sketched just like the base map
on the square paper prepared for drawing a map remembering each of the rooms.
Thus, a new map can be ready just like base map.

viii) GIS (Geographic information Method)

It is a method with modern technology to
sketch a map with the help of special software of
computer. In most of the countries map at present
are produced and processed with the help of this
method.

ix) Template Method

A map is provided in the form of a frame or a GIS method
block. The prepared blocks is kept on plain paper

and fix it and marking is done around it. Lastly, if

any lines are missed out a complete map is made by joining them later.

Various methods are used to draw an outline map with appropriate symbols, so
that everyone can understand. A map is a universal language. Therefore, symbols of
international practice have to be used to make everyone to identify and understand.

Modern Applicable Map Technologies

The advance technology is used in drawing maps nowadays. It has supported to draw
the map more clearly and in an easier way.

Geographical Information System (GIS)

It is methods with modern technology to sketch a map with the help of special computer
software of computer. At present in most of the countries maps are produced and
processed with the help of this method.

The term GIS was first used by Roger Tomlinson in 1968 in his paper " A Geographic
Information system for Regional Planning ." It is a modern and wider concept in the
cartography.

GIS is an integrated system of geography and information tied together. It is computer
based system that enable users to acquire, store, capture collect process and analyze
the geographic information or display spatial data. It provides electronic information
about different natural and manmade features of the earth. It brings information
from multiple sources; it benefits a lot to industries and organizations of all types. It
also performs much complicated analytical functions and visualizes the real world in
the forms of maps globes, tables, reports and charts.

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Application

Mapping Planning
Transportation planning Telecom and Network service
Urban planning Navigation
Banking Surveying
Disaster management and mitigation Natural Resource management, etc.

Global Positioning System (GPS)

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite based navigation system made up
of at least 24 satellites. GPS satellites circle the Earth twice a day in a precise orbit
and provides worldwide information on position, time and velocity.

GPS satellites are powered by solar energy and back up batteries on board them keep
on moving in absence of solar power. The GPS satellites are obtaining the earth about
12000 miles above us at speed of roughly 7,000 miles and hour. It allows one to record
or create locations from places on the earth and help him/her navigate to and from
those places.

The GPS was created by the

United States Department

of Defense. In the beginning Do You Know
it was only used to military
purpose, but later in 1980s it

was allowed for civilian use.

The GPS satellite acts as The first GPS satellite was launched in
reference on the ground 1978 in the USA.

detect their position and those

satellites provide us our latitude longitude, altitude, velocity and time. It works

in any weather conditions anywhere in the world 24 hours a day. Its subscription

fees or set up charge are free of cost. Information from software like Google earth

GPS in communication appliances like mobile and computer is the modern source of

geographical information.

Application Mapping
Tracing
Location Atmospheric studies, etc.
Timing
Mining

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Activities

a. Among the methods used in text book to draw a map of Nepal, which
method you have used and do not use to draw a map? Discuss.

b . Discuss the rare use of stencils and OHP. Draw a full page map of Nepal using
free tracing method.

E ixerc se...

Answer the following questions:

1. What kind of methods can we adopt to draw a map?
2. Why is carbon paper method different than the tracing method? Explain.
3. Why is there no efficiency acquired from photocopy method except fulfilling its

requirement?
4. What kind of information is provided by GPS?
5. Differentiate between GPS and GIS.
6. "Internet facility has made it easier to draw a map." Justify the statement.
7. How do you define Google map? Explain its application.
8. Write down the application of GIS and GPS

iCommun ty Work
Most of the students in your class might have an access to the internet. Make two groups.
Ask one group to bring map of Nepal taken through GIS and the other group through GPS.
Now, compare two different maps and write the conclusion.

Project Work

Most of the students in your class might have an access to the internet. Make two groups
Ask one group to bring map of Nepal taken through GIS and the other group through GPS.
Now compare two different maps and write the conclusion.

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Lesson Map Work

6.19 FACTS The earliest known world maps date to classical antiquity, the oldest examples
of the 6th to 5th centuries BCE still based on the flat earth paradigm. World maps
to Understand assuming a spherical Earth first appear in the Hellenistic period.

CHINA

N

INDIA

Map is the representation of real places or an object. It gives information about places
or locations, directions and the distance of place or an object. While drawing map
we should give as much information as possible. However, the map is drawn in a
small area or a piece of paper and it is difficult to show all the details. Therefore,
symbol is used to give all kinds of information. Even a layman should be able to find
actual places or things by reading the map. Symbols are used in the map to show
the particular information. Symbols are the representation of real objects and gives
conceptual image of the objects. For example, to show the peak or mountain a triangle
like structure is drawn, similarly, to show forest few tree figures are drawn. Different
colours are also used to show agricultural land, water, plateaus, etc. blue colour is
generally used to show water, colour lines are used to show altitude. Symbols and the
objects with their name are shown in the index. Some of the symbols used in the map
given below:

247 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

Lake Capital city

River Bridge
Mountain range Pass
Peak Temple

Roadway Forest

Airway School

Railway University

Ropeway Hospital

Production Area International border

National Park Village/Town

There are specific purposes to draw a map. They are meant for particular reader or
users. For example, a person who wants to migrate to a different place might to know
about the new place and information related to climate, water resource, forest, etc. A
thematic map gives such detailed information; the thematic map is drawn according
to the need of people.

How to Draw a Map of Nepal?

Draw a rectangle of 20cm × 12 cm and divide into 4 cm, 6 cm, 6cm and 4 cm parts
horizontally again divide it into 4 cm, 4 cm and 4 cm vertically.

Draw the figure shown below on the rectangular box from left to right.

Remember the numbers as shown in the figure to remember the parts of Nepal. For

example, 1. Mt. Api 2. Mt. Changla 3. Mustang

4. Mt Ganesh 5. Mt. Langtang 6. Mt. Gaurishankar

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7. Mt Everest 8. Mt. Kanchenjunga, 9. Mahendranagar
10. Nepalgunj 11. Lumbini 12. Chitwan National Park
13. Birgunj 14. Janakpur 15. Koshi River
16. Jhapa

4 cm 2 6 cm 6 cm 4 cm
4 cm

1

9 3
10
4 67 4 cm
5
8

11 12

4 cm

13 14 15 16

In the map tittle and direction is very important. Scale at the bottom of the map,
1 cm = 40 km need to keep boundary line on all the sides of map and draw borderline
to make it attractive.

Activity

Draw a full page map of Nepal and insert the following facts in it:
Kaligandaki, Makalu, Solukhumbu, Helambu, Prithivi Highway, Araniko

Highway, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Rara Lake, Mt. Saipal, Dipayal, Cotton
Production Area, Mid-Hill, Highway (Pushpalal Highway)

Answer the following questions: E ixerc se...

1. What is a map? What are the basic elements of a good map? Mention them.
2. What is a thematic map? Write its importance.

249 Dynamic Social Studies - Book X

3. Give appropriate symbols to the following facts:
i) Desert
ii) International Boundary
iii) Forest
iv) Sea
4. Is skill necessary to draw a map? Give logical answers.
5. How did you draw a map for the first time? Share your experience.
6. Write the importance of scale in the map.
7. Make a table and mention at lest 10 each major rivers major highways, religious

sites, peaks, lakes and national parks of Nepal.

iCommun ty Work
Draw a road map from home up to your school, and present it to your class or paste on
display board.

Review Questions

Answer the following questions:
1. How does the latitude affect the climate of a place? Describe.
2. Climates determine vegetation. Explain the given statement with reference to
Nepal.
3. Give geographical reasons:
i) Though Nepalgunj and Taplejung lie at the same latitude at 28°N they
completely vary in climate.
ii) The northern slopes of mountain in Nepal are colder and drier than the
Southern slopes
4. Who are Hausa and Masai? How is a kraal made up of?
5. The savanna climate Region is called the "Zoo of the World." Explain with
examples.

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