JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson

10 Women Rights in Nepal

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• say something about the rights of women
• tell the rights provided by our constitution to the Nepalese women.

The women that comprise half of the human population have been denied or discriminated
all over the world more or less. The discrimination resulted into the denial of enjoyment
of economic, social, cultural and political benefits as rights as equal to their male counter
parts. Mostly, women in developing countries are given secondary treatment and that help
inhibit the girl child to acquire education, health care, dignity and social protection. In some
societies, women are given limited right to property that leads to keep them dependent of
their husband or parents. The representation of women in the administrative, economic,
political and social sector has been negligible. Even in male dominated families, women
have no right to participate in decision making. The right to equal participation of women
in all development endeavors, as a part of equal enjoyment of all human rights therefore
requires consideration as an integral part of development efforts. Considering overall
aspects of discrimination against women, UN General Assembly passed a resolution
explaining the women rights in 1967 A.D.

Constitutional Provision Regarding to Woman's Right in Nepal

The Constitution of Nepal has made following provisions to improve the women status in
Nepal as their basic rights:
• To create an egalitarian society on the basis or the principles of proportional

inclusion and participation of women.
• To ensure equitable economy, prosperity and social justice
• To end all kinds of gender discrimination.
• To attain the citizenship in the name of mother.
• To make special provisions by law for the protection, empowerment or advancement

of the women lagging behind socially and culturally, pregnant and other backwarded
women.
• No gender discrimination regarding the right to parental property with regard to all
family members.
• Every women have equal right to lineage without any gender discrimination.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 145

• All women have the right related to safe motherhood and reproductive health.
• Women have the right to access participate in the state structures and bodies on the

basis of the principle of proportional inclusion.
• No physical, mental, sexual or psychological or any other kind of violence against

women based on religious, social and cultural tradition and other practices will
be made and such acts are punishable by law and the victim has the right to be
compensated.
• Women have the right to special opportunity in the spheres of education, health,
employment and social security on the basis of positive discrimination.
• Both the spouses have equal rights in property and family affairs.
• Economically, socially or educationally backward women have the right to social
justice to be participated in state structures on the basis of principle of proportional
inclusion.
• Economically poor, physically incapacitated and helpless single women have the
right to social justice.
• To ensure fundamental rights, human rights and gender equality will be the political
objective of the state.

Efforts made for the Upliftment of Women's Status in Nepal

Nepal has made lasting contribution and reform in women's rights. Various efforts and
commitments have been implemented to improve the status of women. Government has
made the following efforts for the upliftment of women status in Nepal.

• Nepal has ratified the international convention against all kinds of discrimination
on women, 1979.

• The Constitution of Nepal has ended the gender discrimination and provided equal
rights on parental property.

• The constitution has made all kinds of violence against women punishable.
• Reservation in various fields including civil services.
• Provision of 33% women participation in Federal parliament, Provincial Assembly

and local level executive.
• Provision of appointing either president or vice president and speaker or deputy

speaker one from women.
• Acquisition of citizenship in mother's name
• Legal right to safe abortion
• Establishment of National Women Commission to formulate policies and programs

regarding women welfare, etc.
• The Constitution of Nepal has included the rights of women as fundamental right.
• Local Election Act, 2073 has made the provision of giving candidency at least one

woman in the post of either head or vice head in local level from the political party.

146 JBD Social Studies Book 10

1 Short answer questions

a. Mention any four rights of women as mentioned in UN Women Rights
Declaration.

b. Describe the present status of women in Nepal.
c. Why are the Nepalese women lagging behind in every sector? Describe with

causes.
d. Discuss any four ways of women empowerment briefly.
e. 'Nepal government has declared equal right on parental property between

male and female.' Give your opinion in this decision of the government.

2 Long answer question.

The constitution of Nepal has made the provision of many rights for women
upliftment. How far you agree with the rights mentioned in the constitution.

Extra Questions for More Practice
a. For the development of a country women development is very necessary. But

the patriarchal value system and traditional cultural practices are the main
cause for lagging behind the women's development. Write any four ways to
develop women status in Nepal.
b. In Nepal, in comparison to the women are backward than men in every field.
If you were the Minister for women and social welfare, what would you do?
Give your own opinion.
c. State any for activities performed by government to get the women involved
in developmental activities.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 147

11Lesson Rights of Indigenous

Nationalities (Adibasi Janajati)

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• identify the indigenous and Janajati people and their rights.
• say some of the efforts made from the government to uplift the living standard of indigenous
and Janajati people of Nepal.

Who are indigenous (Aadibasi) Janajati people?

The terms indigenous and Janajati are different. The word indigenous or Aadibasi is
related to settlement or territories and the word Janajati is connected with gene or origin.
But in Nepal, these two terms have been used in single form as Aadibasi Janajati. In real
sense, Janajati is that group of people who have their own original tradition, way of
living and cultural traits. And, indigenous are the people who inhabited a land before it
was conquered by other people (societies) and who consider themselves distinct from the
societies currently governing those territories.

According to the UN– 'Indigenous peoples are those which having a historical continuity
with pre-invasion and pre-colonial societies that developed on their territories, consider
themselves distinct from other sectors of societies now prevailing in those territories or
parts of them.

Adibasi Janajati in Nepal

Nepal is a multiracial and multilingual country. There are 125 castes and ethnic groups
in Nepal as Census Report of 2068 BS. Among them 59 ethnic groups are listed as Adibasi
Janajati in Nepal. According to the Adibasi Janajati Utthan Rastriya Pratisthan Act 2058,
chapter 1, article no. 2, Adibasi Janajati means the castes/communities.

• having own mother tongue
• having traditional practices
• having separate cultural identity
• having separate social structure and having written or unwritten history.

The Adibasi Janajati castes or communities are backwarded in human development index.
They are far from the access of education, communication, health and other resources.
The following ethnic groups are enlisted as Adibasi Janajati in Nepal.

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Group Himal Hill Inner Terai Terai
Verge of extinct 1. Kusunda 6. Raute 8. Kisan
(Endanger) group 2. Bankariya 7. Raji 9. Meche (Bodo)
3. Surel 10. Kushbadia
4. Hayu
Most marginalized 11. Siyar 5. Lepha 17. Majhi 20. Dhanuk
group 12. Lhomi 14. Chepang 18. Bote (Rajbansi)
15. Thami 19. Danuwar
(Shingsaba) 16. Barami 21. Satar
13. Thudam 36. Kunal (Santhal)
30. Sunuwar 37. Darai
Marginalized group 23. Bhote 31. Tamang 22. Jhangad
24. Tokpe gola 32. Bhujel
25. Dolpo 33. Pahari 38. Tharu
26. Larke 34. Fri 39. Rajbansi
27. Lhopa 35. Dura 40. Gangai
28. Mugali 41. Dhimal
29. Walung 42. Tajpuriya

Backward group 43. Chhairatan 50. Gurung
44. Tangbe 51. Magar
(excluded from the 45. Tin 52. Rai Kirati
Gaule Thakali 53. Limbu
access of facilities) 46. Bahra gauli 54. Yakkha
47.Marphali 55. Chhantyal
Thakali 56. Jirel
48. Sherpa 57. Hyolmo
49. Byasi
Developed group 59. Newar
58. Thakali Source: Adibasi Janajati Utthan Rastriya Pratisthan


Rights of Adibasi Janajati

Nepal is a country having many castes and ethnic groups. Most of the ethnic groups of
Nepal are exploited from historic injustices. They are deprived from their rights. Thus,
preventing them from such exploitation is the urgent need of today. It is the fact that
Adibasi Janajati people are organizing themselves for political, economic, social and
cultural enhancement. Similarly, they are organizing in order to bring and to end all
forms of discrimination and oppression where they occur.

Adibasi janajati people have traditional skill, knowledge and technology. These indigenous
knowledge, cultures and traditional practices contribute to sustainable and equitable

JBD Social Studies Book 10 149

development and proper management of the environment. Adibasi Janajati people have
the right to freely determine their relationship with states in a spirit of co-existence,
mutual benefit and full respect. The rights of Adibasi Janajati can be summarized in the
following points.

• Adibasi janajati have the right of full enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental
freedoms as recognized in the charter of the UN.

• Adibasi Janajati have the right of self determination
• Adibasi Janajati people have the right to practice, protect and promote their cultural

traditions, customs, language, script and civilization.
• Their children have the right to get all levels and forms of education of the state in

child friendly environment without any discrimination.
• They have the right to establish and control their educational systems and institutions

providing education in their own mother tongue.
• They have the right to get special facility in employment, housing and other services

provided by the state.
• Adibasi Janajati people have the right to life and have the collective right to live in

freedom, peace and security as distinct people.
• Every Adibasi Janajati individual has the right to a nationality.
• Adibasi Janajati have the right to proportionate and strong presence in all organs of

state.
• Every Adibasi Janajati individual has the right to easy access of natural resources.
• Adibasi Janajati people have the right to participate in decision making in matters

which would affect their rights.
• Adibasi Janajati people shall not be forcibly removed from their lands or territories.
• Adibasi Janajati people have the right to maintain and strengthen their distinct

political, legal, economic, social and cultural institutions.
Attempt made by government to establish the rights regarding to Adibasi Janajati
in Nepal

Adibasi Janajati people and individuals are free and equal to all other people and
individuals. They have the right to be free from any kind of discrimination in the exercise
of their rights in particular that based on their indigenous origin or identity. The history
of struggle of Adibasi Janajati to establish their rights is very long. Ten Limbuwan revolt
in 1770 A.D. at Pallo Kirant is considered the first Adibasi Janajati movement in Nepal.
Kirant revolt of Majh Kirant, Murmi (Tamang) revolt of Nuwakot, Khambu revolt of
Gorkha, Nepal Bhasa suppression in Kathmandu, Manka Khala revolt etc. are some of
notable Adibasi Janajati movements in Nepal. Some of the rights of Adibasi Janajati have

150 JBD Social Studies Book 10

been addressed from those historical and other movements of Nepal. Following rights
have been established regarding to Adibasi Janajati in Nepal.
• The Constitution of Nepal has provided right to equality. According this article no

people shall be denied the equal protection of law.
• Each community living in Nepal shall have the right to preserve and promote its

language, script, culture, cultural civilization and heritage.
• Economically, socially or educationally backward Adibasi Janajati shall have the

right to employment in state structures on the basis of the principle of proportional
inclusion.
• Making special arrangements to ensure the rights of Adibasi Janajati to lead a
dignified life with their respective identities.
• Making them participate in decision making processes that concern them.
• Adibasi Janajati Commission has been established as constitutional organ to
preserve and maintain their rights, traditional knowledge, skill, experience, culture
and social practices.
• Right to get basic education in their mother tongue is granted.
• Management of teacher and books of their own language.
• Scholarship in various fields is reserved.

1 Short answer questions

a. Who are Adibasi Janajati? List the Adibasi Janajati living in your community.
Are they setting their rights properly? Mention.

b. Adibasi Janajati people are the first settlers of their respective country but they
are still backwarded. Why? Describe with reasons.

c. Make a list of the rights of Adibasi Janajati.
d. Describe the formation and functions of Adibasi Janajati Commission.
e. Adibasi Janajati people have the demand of getting education in their own

language. How does it support in protection their rights? Describe.

2 Long answer question

Critically analyse the rights provided to Adibasi Janajati in Nepal.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 151

Lesson Identification of Citizen
and Citizenship
12

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to

• tell the meaning of citizen and citizenship
• describe the types of citizenship
• explain the provision and procedure of citizenship in Nepal.

Introduction

The people who live within a territory of a country are called citizens. But in ancient
time, those who lived in city were only counted as citizens. The villagers, slave, peasants,
workers as well as women were not counted as citizens during that time. In ancient Rome
and Greece, a resident of city was a citizen. Today, all the people either living in cities or
villages and all men, women, poor, rich, workers, farmers, children or old are known as
citizen.

The citizenship is the certificate or identity given by state to its citizens. It is a legal identity
of a person in his/her country. A person can enjoy the protection and rights granted by the
state after getting the citizenship. Some people say that the citizenship and nationality are
same matters but, in fact nationality and citizenship are different things. The differences
between nationality and citizenship are listed below in table.

Citizenship Nationality

1. Citizenship can be achieved only as 1. Nationality remains forever wherever

reseeded in the country. we are.

2. It is of temporary nature which can be 2. It cannot be terminated because of its

terminated. permanent nature.

3. Citizenship is a limited concept. 3. It is a broader concept.

4. Citizenship is connected with law and 4. Nationality is linked with the feeling

state. of people.

5. Citizenship is an individual concept. 5. It is the collective concept.

Types of Citizenship

Different perspective have been developed in the world regarding citizenship in the
world. Some countries provide citizenship on the basis of birth. Other countries provide
citizenship based on decent and many other countries have adopted the principle of
double citizenship. However the common types of citizenship are discussed below:

152 JBD Social Studies Book 10

(a) Natural citizenship

A person who gets birth in a country from the permanent domicile is known as
natural citizenship. A citizen who acquires the citizenship by birth is called natural
citizenship. There are three principles of acquiring natural citizenship.

(i) Citizenship by birth or blood relation: This is the citizenship which is provided
to the persons who have born in a country from their permanent residence.
This principle is based on blood relationship. According to this principle, a
child automatically gets the citizenship of his parents.

(ii) Citizenship by place: This principle is based on the place of birth of a child.
A child gets the citizenship of the place of his birth no matter what is the
nationality of his parents, according to this principle.

(iii) Dual citizenship: According to this principle, a child acquires the citizenship
by birth and place. It means both the principle of blood relationship and place
of birth. A person will have two citizenship at a time.

(b) Naturalized citizenship

A foreigner who is residing in a country can get a citizenship after fulfilling certain
conditions of that country is called naturalized citizenship. The naturalized citizens
are not entitled to enjoy all the rights of the country due to naturalized citizenship.
For example, the naturalized citizens cannot hold the post of president, vice
president, prime minister and head of constitutional organs.

Citizenship in Nepal

The Constitution of Nepal has made provision of providing citizenship to all Nepali
citizens. According to the constitution, no Nepali citizen shall be denied the right to
acquire citizenship. And, there shall be a provision of single federal citizenship with
provincial identity in Nepal. The constitution of Nepal has emphasized the following
bases of providing citizenship in Nepal.

(i) Citizenship based on decent
Following persons will acquire the citizenship of decent of Nepal:
• A person who has acquired the citizenship of Nepal by decent before the
commencement of this constitution.
• Any person whose father or mother was a citizen of Nepal at the birth of such
a person.
• A child of a citizen who has acquired citizenship of Nepal by birth before the
commencement of this constitution will acquire the citizenship by decent.
• Every child found in Nepal where about of whose paternity and maternity is
not known will be citizen of Nepal by decent until his/her mother or father is
traced.

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• A child born to a Nepali citizen mother and having the domicile in Nepal can
acquire the citizenship by decent until his father is identified.

(ii) Naturalized citizenship
The present constitution has made the following conditions for naturalized
citizenship:
• A person born to a Nepali citizen mother and having his/her domicile in Nepal
but whose father is not terraced, the citizenship provided him/her by decent
will be converted in naturalized citizenship if his/her father is found to be a
foreigner.
• If a foreigner woman married to a Nepali citizen so wishes, she may acquire
naturalized citizenship of Nepal as provided for in federal law.
• A person born to Nepali women citizen married to a foreign citizen, he/she
may acquire naturalized citizenship of Nepal as provided for by a federal law if
he/she is having the permanent domicile in Nepal and he/she has not acquired
citizenship of the foreign country.

(iii) Non-residential citizenship
The person who has acquired citizen of a foreign country and residing in a country
other than the country which is a member of the SAARC and who or whose father
or mother, grandfather or grand mother was citizen of Nepal by decent or birth and
later on has acquired citizenship of the foreign country, may be conferred with the
non-residential citizenship of Nepal entitling him/her to the economic, social and
cultural rights as provided for a federal law.

(iv) Honorary citizenship
The provision of honorary citizenship has mentioned in the present constitution.
Government of Nepal may confer honorary citizenship to the renowned personalities
of any person according to federal law.

In this way, the person who is entitled to the citizenship of Nepal by decent or any
other reason may obtain the citizenship certificate of Nepal from name of his/her
mother or father along with gender identity.

Procedure of Acquiring Citizenship in Nepal

A person attaining 16 years of age is qualified to acquire the citizenship in Nepal. The person
should fill up an application form provided from the respective District Administration
office along with the following documents.

• Birth certificate

• Recommendation letter of school and village council or municipality

• Citizenship of mother or father

• A passport size photographs and postal stamp of Rs.10

154 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Termination of Citizenship Nepal
The citizenship of Nepal can be terminated in the following conditions:
• If the person has raised arms against Nepal or has committed any other offence
against the state.
• If the person has not served or avoids serving the state during war in which
Nepal has taken part.
• If the person has helped or made an attempt to help any enemy country of
Nepal against sovereignty of Nepal.
The other condition of termination of citizenship shall be as provided for in federal
law.

1 Short answer questions

a. Differentiate between citizenship and nationality.
b. Who are the citizen of Nepal by decent?
c. Who can acquire the naturalized citizenship of Nepal?
d. Non-residential citizenship has limited the rights for Non-residential Nepali

(NRN). In this context, is it necessary to limit their rights or not? Give your
logic.
e. Write down the condition of terminating citizenship in Nepal.

2 Long answer questions

The constitution of Nepal has made the provision of citizenship to all Nepali citizens
but still some people are not getting the citizenship. Why? What problems will be
there if the citizens do not have citizenship? Describe in short.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 155

6UNIT

OUR EARTH

� Types of Climate and Factors Affecting the Climate
� Tropical Climate Region
� Lifestyle in Tropical Climate
� Temperate Region
� Lifestyle in Temperate Climate Zone
� Frigid (Polar) Region
� Factors Affecting Climate
� Natural Vegetation Around the World
� Effect of Climate and Geographical Diversity on Human Life
� North America : Physical Features
� North America : Natural Resources and Economic Activities
� South America : Physical Features
� South America :People and Economic Activities
� Africa Physical Features
� Africa : Human Resource and Economic Activities
� Earthquake and Tsunami
� Map Study
� Techniques of Drawing Map

156 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson

1 Types of Climate and Factors
Affecting the Climate

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to

• define climate and climatic region

• describe the climates of the world

Climate refers to the average atmospheric condition of a place. It takes a long time nearly
35 years for slight change in temperature and rainfall. It occupies a larger area i.e. the
climate of Nepal, the climate of India, etc. Different factors affect the climate of a place.
There are twelve types of climate found in the world based on latitudinal extension.
These are divided into three climatic regions. Therefore, a larger area having more or less
similar climatic features is known as climatic region. The temperature, rainfall and wind
pressure is nearly the same in a climatic region all over the world. The following table
shows the area, extension and direction of wind found on the earth's surface.

Types of Climate

Polar Region Tundra or Polar climate 90°N
70°N

Cool temperature Climate
60°N
Cool Oceanic Temperate
climate grassland climate St. Lawrence
Climate
TReegmipoenrate Mediterranean Temperate desert 45°N
climate climate
China type
climate

Tropical desert climate Tropical 30°N
Savana grassland or Sudan climate monsoon 20°N
climate 5°N
RTergoipoincal
Equatorial Climate

0°

Fig. Climates found in Northern hemisphere

There are three climatic regions in one hemisphere based on temperature and pressure of
the wind. Following types of climates are found in each zone. They are

JBD Social Studies Book 10 157

A. Tropical region (zone)
i. Equatorial climate
ii. Tropical grassland or Sudan type of climate
iii. Tropical desert climate
iv. Tropical monsoon climate
B. Temperate region (zone)
i. Mediterranean climate
ii. Temperate grassland
iii. Cool temperate oceanic climate
iv. Temperate Monsoon (China type)
v. Temperate Desert climate
vi. St. Lawrence or Manchurian climate
C. Frigid zone
i. Alpine climate
ii. Tundra polar climate

Factors Affecting Climate

The climate varies in various places. The factors that affect the climate are described
below:

a. Latitude/ distance from the equator

The places near the equator
are very hot throughout the
year and as we go towards
north and south pole, the
temperature decreases. It
means the farther we go
from the equator, the colder
we feel or more the latitude
less the temperature and vice
versa. This happens because
of:

i. The sun's rays are vertical over the equator throughout the year whereas the
sun's rays are obliqued at the poles.

ii. Only a small portion of land is to heat by the sun's rays in the equator and
larger areas at the poles.

iii. The sun's rays have to travel a shorter distance at the equator whereas the
rays have to travel a longer distance at the poles. Due to this long distance of
travelling, the heat is lost in the space.

158 JBD Social Studies Book 10

b. Altitude

There is inversely proportion relation between altitude and temperature. Higher the
altitude lower the temperature and lower the altitude higher the temperature.
Therefore, the temperature is high in plain i.e. in Terai and low in mountain and
hill. This is because of:

i. The density of the air in the
plain or in low altitude is high
which exerts more pressure
and causes high temperature.

ii. The air in lower altitude
contains dust particles and
water vapour and they absorb
more heat and cause high temperature but in the high altitude, the air
molecules expand and exerts less temperature.

The lapse rate of decreasing rate temperature is 1°C in every increase of 165m. So,
the temperature in Terai i .e. Nepalgunj is higher than mountain i.e. Namche Bazar
although these two places are located in the same latitude.

c. Distance from the sea : The places near the sea or river have neither very hot in
summer nor very cold in winter and those places receive more rainfall. This is
because of the water vapour present in the air. But in the interior part of the
continent, the climate is extreme and dry coastal areas are also affected due to
exchange of land breeze and sea breeze. Hence, the climate is moderate near the
coastal part and the climate is extreme far from the sea or in interior parts of
continents.

d. Slope of land : Land slopes turning
towards south in the Northern Hemisphere
are warmer than the slopes falling north.
The rays of the sun fall there vertically
than they do in the northern slopes. In
the same way, the windward area receives
more rain than the leeward slope. This also causes variation in temperature. Due to
this reason, the southern slope of Nepal is warmer than its northern slope.

e. Presence of Mountain : Wind ward area of the mountain gets more rainfall than
leeward area. The presence of mountain causes the barrier to the moist air and it rises

JBD Social Studies Book 10 159

up which causes the rainfall in the windward area. But the moist air becomes dry
when it crosses the mountain and it does not cause more rain in leeward area of the
mountain. Nepal gets more rainfall in summer season because the Himalaya checks
the moist air blowing from Bay of Bangal. Tibet lies in leeward of the Himalaya. So,
this area doesn't get more rainfall due to the presence of mountain.

f. Ocean current: The regular movements of the water from one part of the ocean
to another are called ocean currents. These ocean currents modify the climate of the
coastal regions along which they flow. The winds passing over warm currents pick
up moisture and bring rain while those passing over cold currents do not. The Gulf
stream, warm ocean current, makes the parts of western Europe warmer whereas
the same latitude of North America remains cold due to the Labrador current.

g. Prevailing Wind : The nature of wind also makes the difference in climate. The
areas where trade wind blows are dry and the places of polar winds are colder. The
areas of westerly are warmer and get more rainfall. Summer monsoon causes more
rainfall in Nepal but the winter monsoon does not.

h. Vegetation and Soil : These two factors affect local climate. The climate near the
forest area is damp and moist but the climate in naked area is dry.

The colour of soil determines the climate of a specific place. The climate of the area having
black and alluvial soil is warmer but the climate is cool at the places having whitesoil.

1 Short answer questions

a. How does latitude affect the climate of a place? Describe with figure.
b. Draw the chart of climate types found in Northern hemisphere.
c. How does altitude affect the climate of a place?

Describe by giving reference of Nepal.
d. Describe the given figure in your own words.
e. Write down the characteristics of the climate

found in your area.

2 Long answer question

Describe the factors affecting climate briefly.

160 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson Tropical Climatic Region

2

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• describe the areas and climatic characteristics of different climates found in 0–30° north and
south in tropical zone of the world.

Tropical zone is hot climatic region. It is extended between 0°–30° Latitude in both
hemispheres. Sun rays fall directly between equator and tropics throughout the year. So
this region has hot climate but the amount of rainfall is different in different places. On
the basis of temperature and rainfall, this climatic region has four climates. They are :

a. Equatorial climate b. Tropical grassland climate

c. Tropical desert climate d. Tropical monsoon climate

A short description of these climate is given below:

A. Equatorial Climate

Location and areas

This region stretches as a

more or less continuous

belt 0° to 5° north and

south of the equator and

extends even farther

on the windward sides.

This climate is found in

Amazon lowlands and

Guinea coast of south

America, Congo Basin Fig : Equatorial Climate Region

and Guinea coast of Africa and Malaysia, Indonesia, New Guinea and parts of Philippines

in Asia.

Climate

It is hot all the year round because the sun's rays are always nearly vertical. Temperature
ranges 25°-30°C. There is much cloudy weather, indeed many places are cloudy nearly all
the year round especially in the afternoon. This region receives heavy rainfall throughout
the year and the annual average rainfall is more than 200cm. Most of it comes as heavy

JBD Social Studies Book 10 161

showers in the late afternoon, after accompanied by lightning and thunder. There are no
change of seasons in this zone and the length of day and night also remains more or less
equal.

B. Tropical grassland (Savanna) climate

Location and areas

This region is found on either side
of the equatorial belt between 5°-
20° north and south of the equator.
It is mostly found in Sudan and
Africa. So, this climate is known
as Sudan type of climate too. The
other areas are northern Australia,
Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina,
Guinea, Mali, Niger, etc.

Climate Fig : Tropical Grassland (Savana) Climate Region

The region has very hot and dry summer and cold winter. The sun's rays fall vertically
over this region which heats the air. There is sun shine for 13-14 hours and humidity is
low, air is hot, dry and dusty. The average monthly temperature during the dry season
ranges between 25°-37°C. Rainfall varies from 25cm to 75cm and is usually unreliable.
Trade wind causes no rainfall in winter season here.

C. Tropical Desert Climate

Location and areas

Tropical desert area is

extended between 20°-

30° latitudes on both

hemispheres. Most of

them occupy the western

part of the continents.

This region extends to

California, USA, Atacama

deserts of South America,

Sahara and Kalahari Fig : Tropical Desert Climate Region

deserts of Africa, Arabian and Thar in Asia and great Australian desert in Australia.

162 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Climate

There is hot and dry climate all the year round in hot deserts. The sky is usually cloudless
and humidity is very low. There is a large daily range of temperature in this region. The
temperature in the day time may rise to 55°C and the temperature at the night is almost
freezing. The rainfall is very scanty and unreliable. The annual rainfall is less than 25cm.
But, sometimes there is no rainfall for 2/3 years and there is great variation of rainfall in

the amount from year to year.

D. Tropical monsoon climate

Location and area

The climate found

between 5°-30° north

and south in both

hemispheres from the

equator is called tropical

monsoon climate. It

is generally found in

the eastern part of

the continent. India,

Pakistan, Bangladesh, Fig : Tropical Monsoon Climate Region
Nepal, Southern China,

South-eastern USA, east Africa, Madagaskar, Northern Australia etc are the main areas of

tropical monsoon climate.

Climate

The region has four seasons. The summers are hot and wet. Temperature in summer
varies from 25°-35°C and winter temperature remains below 15°C. The other seasons have
moderate temperatures. Rainfall occurs in the rainy season because of the monsoon wind
which originates from the sea. The rainfall is unreliable and the amounts fluctuate greatly
due to monsoon wind. More rain falls in the places along coasts and the windward sides
of the mountains and it is less in the interior or on the leeward side of the mountains. The
rainfall varies from place to place ranging between 50-200cm annually.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 163

1 Short answer questions

a. Describe the location and climate features of equatorial climate.

b. 'Savanna climate is called zoo of the world. Why? Explain with reasons.

c. Study the temperature and rainfall statistics given below and answer the
questions as asked.

Months J F M A M J J` A S O N D

Temp (°C) 11 17 24 34 37 40 47 42 36 26 19 15

Rainfall (cm) 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.5 0.2 0.5 2.5 2.8 0.8 0.0 0.2 0.2

i. Which climatic area does the given statistic represent?

ii. What is the mean annual temperature?

iii. What is the total annual rainfall?

iv. Which months have the highest and lowest rainfall?

d. Nepal lies in tropical monsoon region but the climate of Terai, hill and
mountain has great difference. Why? Explain.

e. Complete the following table with climatic characteristics of tropical region.

S.N. Name of Climate S.N. Two Characteristics of each

1. 1.
2.

2. 1.
2.

3. 1.
2.

4. 1.
2.

2 Long answer question

Insert the following places in the map of world.

a. Countries having equatorial climate
b. Countries having Savana climate
c. Tropical deserts of the world.
d. Countries having to tropical monsoon climate.

164 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson Lifestyle in Tropical
Climate
3

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to

• describe the lifestyle of people in tropical climate
• tell the name of primitive tribes of tropical climate region.

Equatorial Climate

On the whole, this region is not densely

populated. It covers about 5 percent of

the world's population. But eastern part

(Asia) of this region is densely populated

in comparison to western part. The human

civilization is also advanced there. The

main reasons for this are the influence

of European and the hard-working and

development friendly attitude of the

people. Fig : Semai People of Malaysia
The life of the people in western part is

primitive type. They live by hunting and gathering edible fruits, nuts and leaves. They

wear very little clothing. Every thing they possess comes from the forest. The physical

structure of their body is adoptable to hot and humid climate of this dense forest. Semang,

Kubus, Dayaks, Pygmies etc are some of the backward people in this region.

Tropical Grassland (Savana) Climate Fig : A Massai Cowboy

The lifestyle of the people in this region is not
advanced. Some of the native people are nomads.
They rear animals and wander from one place to
another in search of grass and water. Some tribes
have settled life, practising agriculture. Hunting,
grazing and primitive agriculture practices are
the main occupations of the native people of the
Savanna region. Massai people of Kenya and
Tanzania and Hausa of Nigeria are the examples
of this type.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 165

Commercial agriculture has been introduced by Europeans in Savanna region. They grow

sugarcane, cotton, tobacco, cocoa, coffee, banana and

pineapples here and they export these productions in

large quantity. Large areas of the Savanna grassland in

south America and Australia are devoted in cattle

rearing. The introduction of refrigeration has enabled

these countries to export meat to far away in highly

populated cities. Similarly, many national parks and

wildlife reserves have been established in the Savanna Fig : Cocoa
region, now. These national parks and wild life reserves

attract many tourists from different countries each year. Film shooting work is also going

on in this region. Therefore, the region has great potentiality of economic development.

Tropical Desert Climate

Deserts occupy about 14% of the earth's

land but it supports only 5% of the total

population of the world. Some people of

deserts are nomads and they live in tent.

They move from one place to another

with their cattle in search of water. They

have primitive lifestyle. They roam about

in bands of 40-50, hunting and collecting

roots too. They build flimsy shelters of Fig : A Camel in a Desert
grass and dry branches. They wear little

clothes. They eat meat and milk of camel. The permanent settlements are only found

in oasis area. They grow wheat, cotton, vegetables, date fruits in oasis area of desert.

Bushmen, Bindibus, Tuaregs etc are nomadic people of tropical desert.

Tropical Monsoon Climate

Monsoon region is one of the densely populated
regions in the world. The climate is favourable for
agriculture. So agriculture is the main occupation
everywhere in this region. Rice, wheat, maize, pulses,
rubber, tea, sugarcane, coffee, etc. are grown here.
People rear domestic animals such as cow, buffalo,
sheep, goats, etc. Many big, medium and small

166 JBD Social Studies Book 10

scale industries have been established. Monsoon region is very rich in old civilization.
Indus valley civilization, Hwang-Ho civilization flourished in the past here. The culture
and civilization of this region is called eastern culture. Because of suitable condition,
population is increasing rapidly in this region. So, it is necessary to control in time.

2 Short answer questions

a. The aborigines of equatorial climate region have primitive lifestyle but those
who are living in eastern island groups of the same climatic area have advanced
lifestyle. What are reasons behind it?

b. The Savana climatic region has great potentiality of tourism but most of the
people of this region are still nomad and they move from one place to another
with their cattle. Find the causes and write what programs can be launched to
uplift their living standard.

c. Tropical monsoon climate has high density of population. It is very rich in
human civilization and culture. Why and how? Discuss.

d. Agriculture is practised in the places of hot desert. People are making more
profit from the modern agriculture there. Write a suggestion letter to a group
of farmers of your area explaining how they can make profit from agriculture.

e. Why is camel called the ship of desert? Give four reasons.

3 Long answer question

Locate following places on map of the world.
Sahara desert, Kalahari desert, Thar, Western Australia, Kenya, Atacama desert,
Nigeria, area of Pygmies and Nepal.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 167

Lesson Temperate Region

4

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to

• tell the name of climate found in temperate region.
• explain the climatic feature of this region

Temperate region lies between 30°- 60° latitude north and south from the equator. This
region has neither hot nor cold climate. The region gets sufficient rainfall. So, this region
is suitable for settlement and agriculture. Most of the developed cities of the world are
located in this region. This is densely populated region in the world. The main climates
of this region are:

a. Mediterranean climatic zone

b. China type of climatic zone

c. St. Lawrence type of climatic zone

d. Temperate grassland zone

e. Temperate desert climate

f. Cool temperate oceanic climate

A. Mediterranean Climatic Zone Fig: Mediterranean Climatic Region

Location and areas

This region lies on the tropical
margins of middle latitude
between 30°- 45° north and south.
Mostly, this climate occupies the
western margins of the continents.
This climate is mostly found in
Spain, Portugal, Southern France,
Italy, Turkey, Algeria, Tunisia,
Morocco, Chile, South and south
west region of Austria.

168 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Climate

Summers are hot and nearly dry. Average summer temperature varies from 20°-26°C.
In summer, Trade winds blow over these regions. They blow across the land and cause
dry. The sky is clear in summer season. Winters are warm and wet. Average winter
temperatures vary between 5°- 15°C. Winter is the season of rain but rainfall is not much,
it barely exceeds 85 cm. Coastal areas may get more rain and some regions near the coast
get some rain throughout the year.

B. Temperate Grassland Climate Fig: Temperate Grassland Climatic Region

Location and areas

The temperate grasslands are found
between latitude 45°-60° North
and 30°–40° latitude in southern
hemisphere. They lie far away from
the influence of the sea in the middle
of the continents. Central USA,
Southern part of Canada, around the
Andes mountain of south America,
west Siberia, Mongolia, Murray-
Darling basin of Australia, etc. are
the main dominated areas of this climate.

Climate

Most of the parts of this region lies in the
interior part of the large continents. So, the
climate is very extreme here. In summer, the
average temperature varies from 18°C to 24°C.
Summers are short and quite warm. There is
abundant sunshine and clear sky in summer
season. In winter, the temperature varies
between –4°C to 2°C. Rainfall is in spring and
early summer and it varies between 25 to 65
cm. This region falls in the zone of the westerlies.

C. Temperate Monsoon (China type) Climate

Location and areas

This climatic region lies between 30° and 45° North and South latitude on the eastern
margins of the continents. This climate is mostly found in north and central China,
southern Japan, southern Brazil and southern Queensland.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 169

Climate

There are many variations in climatic characteristics. The summer temperature is high
with high humidities. The temperature varies between 21° - 27°C. Temperature in winter
varies between 5- 10°C. Light forest is usual in winter. Rainfall remains between 75-125
cm. Mostly it occurs in summer season.

D. The Laurentian or St. Lawrence type of climate

Location and areas

The region lies between 45° and 60° latitude from the equator. This climate is mostly
found in northern hemisphere. The climate is found in St. Lawrence lowlands of North
America, Manchuria, northern Japan etc.

Climate

This climate is very favourable for human health. The temperature exceeds 20°C in
summer and 0°C in winter season. there is no more difference in annual temperature due
to oceanic effects. rainfall is moderate from 50 cm to 125cm. It occurs through the year
but most of it falls in summer when the wind blows from the sea.

E. Temperate desert climate

Location and area

This climate is found between

30° – 40° latitude in both

hemispheres mostly in interior

part of the continents. Turkistan

(east of Caspian sea), Tibet,

Mangolia, Rocky Mountain (mid

highland), South Argentina,

etc are the main places of this

climate. These places lie in rain

shadow of mountain climate. Fig: Temperate Desert Climatic Zone

Summer is very hot and winter is very cold in this climatic area. It has an extreme

climate. The average temperature of summer season is 27°c and the winter temperature

is less than 0°c. These places lie far from the sea. There is no influence of ocean. And,

they lie in the rain shadow of mountain. Therefore, the rainfall occurs very less here. The

annual average rainfall is between 1-2.5 cm only. This rainfall is also caused by the storm

and cyclone in summer season. The winter is totally dry.

170 JBD Social Studies Book 10

F. Cool temperate oceanic climate

Location and area
This climate region lies between 45°-60° latitude in Northern Hemisphere and 40°-50°
latitude in Southern Hemisphere. Generally this climate is found in the western side of
the continents. Western France, Belgium, Western part of Canada, British Isles, Denmark,
Norway, South Chili, Tasmania, Victoria, Southern island of Newzealand, etc. are the
main areas of this climate. Mostly this climate is found in western Europe. So, it is also
known as West European climate or British type climate.
Climate
This climate reason has moderate and equable climatic condition. Here is neither hot
in summer nor cold in winter. The summer temperature doesn't exceed 20°C and the
average temperature of winter is 7°C. The range of temperature is not more than 10°C.
The summer months are warm and winters are cool and equable due to the great influence
of ocean and ocean current.
The westerly causes the rainfall throughout the year. But more rainfall occurs in winter
season because of cyclone. There is heavier rain on the windward slopes than on the
Leeward sides of the mountains. Average rainfall varies from 50 to 120cm.

1 Short answer questions

a. You are the inhabitant of the tropical monsoon type of climate region. If you
were inhabitant of Mediterranean climatic region, what differences would
you feel in climatic condition of winter and summer? Explain with reasons.

b. List the climate characteristics of temperature climatic zone.
c. Temperate monsoon climate is suitable for silk production. How? Find the

bases and explain in brief.
d. Why is the temperate grassland especially Prairies grassland called the

Granaries of the world? Give reasons.
e. Prove the causes of winter rainfall in Mediterranean climate area.

2 Long answer question

Show the places of temperate climate zone in a map of the world.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 171

Lesson Lifestyle in Temperate
Climate Zone
5

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• explain the mode of life of the people in different climatic area of temperate zone

A. Mediterranean Climate Area

Mediterranean lands occupy about one
percent of the world's land surface but
support nearly 10 percent of the world's
population. The countries bordering the
Mediterranean Sea are densely populated.
The climate of this region is considered
pleasant. So, the people are more active here.
They are involved in different activities.
Agriculture is practised in extensive way.
They grow olive oil, citrus fruit and wheat.
Different big industries have been developed here. The region is famous for wine and juice
production in the world. Various kinds of food processing industries are also established
in this region. Sunshine, sea and scenery have given these lands a flourishing tourist
industry too. Therefore, the living standard of the people is high. They have modern and
advanced lifestyle.

B. Temperate Grassland (Savana) Region

On the whole, these regions do not have Fig: Agriculture activities
thick population. Agriculture is the main
occupation in modern times, and wheat
and maize are the most important crops.
Commercial agriculture prevails
everywhere in the Prairies. The climate
is ideal for wheat since the rain falls at
critical time of the growing season
though small, it is sufficient for wheat
growing in most of the grasslands.

172 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Where irrigation is available, also cotton and maize are grown. The vast rolling plains
make it easy to use machinery for agricultural works. These lands have, therefore, become
the granaries of the world.

Animal husbandry, specially sheep-rearing is predominant in
the drier sections of the Prairies and Australia. These animals
produce large quantities of milk, butter, cheese and raw
materials such as leather, wool, meat, fats, bones and horns to
animal based industries.

Krighiz, Red Indian, Hottentots are some of the primitive Fig : Red Indian Woman
people in temperate grassland region. They move pasture to
pasture with their flocks and herds of camels, oxen, sheep
and goats.

C. Temperate Monsoon (China type) Climate

People and mode of life

This region has pleasant climate. Therefore, the region has dense population. A mild rainy
climate favours the cultivation of a wide variety of crops. Rice, soybeans, sugarcane, potato,
cotton, wheat, barley are the main agriculture productions. Fishing is also popular in this
region. Dairy farming, forest industries, mining and sericulture are other occupations of
the people in China type of climatic region.

D. St. Lawrence Type of Climate

People and mode of life

This region is densely populated area in the world. The region has good natural resources
of forests, fish and minerals and supports to larger number of people. Industries and
trade have flourished well. People have high living standard. They have modern lifestyle.
Transportation and communication facilities are available in all the parts of this region.
Big industries of the world are located here. The developed cities of UK, Norway, Sweden,
France, Germany, USA, Canada etc are located here.

E. Temperate Desert Climate Fig: Desert lifestyle

The life in the desert of temperate JBD Social Studies Book 10
climatic zone is difficult. The population
is sparsely distributed here. The density of
population is nearly 5 people per square
kilometer. Most of the people are nomads

173

in this region. Animal husbandary is the main occupation of the people. Thus, the people
move from one place to another with their cattle. The art, architecture and civilization is
not developed as expected in this region. The chance of economic progress is very less in
this region because of unfavourable climate.

F. Temperate Oceanic Climate
This climate is considered very suitable for physical and mental activity. The people are
active, laborious and progressive. There are several areas of extremely dense population.
This region is highly developed region. Industries, agriculture, animal husbandary, fishing,
business and tourism are the main areas of occupation in this region. Dairy industries of
Netherland, Denmark, Norway, Western Australia, Canada are world famous. People have
high per capita income here.

1 Short answer questions

a. Explain the causes of high population and development in temperate climatic
zone.

b. Why do the people of Mediterranean climatic areas involve in wine producing?
Find as more as possible reasons.

c. 'Argentina is the main meat exporter country in the world.' Give any four
reasons .

d. Compare between tropical grassland and temperate grassland in terms of
economic activities of the people.

e. Explain the main economic activities of the people of temperate climatic
region.

2 Long answer question

Insert the following places in the map of world.
A place of Mediterranean climate, Veld, Prairie, Pampas, St. Lawrence river, Denmark,
winter rainfall area, an area of rainfall throughout the year, Orchid farming area.

174 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson Frigid (Polar) Region

6

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• explain the location, climatic characters, natural vegetation and economic activities of polar
region

This region lies between 60°- 90° latitudes around Arctic and Antarctic circle to poles. This
region has two distinct climatic zones.

A. Cool Temperate Zone (Siberian Climate)

Location and areas Fig : Siberian Climate Zone

This region lies
between 60°- 70°
latitudes. The Tundra
climate lies in north
and temperate
climate on the south.
It stretches almost
in southern Alaska,
Southern Canada,
parts of Norway,
Northern Russia, Northern Siberia, etc.

Climate

Winters are very cold and severe 6 to 7 months with temperatures below freezing. Due to
slanted rays of the sun throughout the year, this zone experiences very low temperature.
It has January temperature of nearly –20°C. Summers are short, lasting for 3 or 4 months
with the temperature 15°C. Rainfall varies from 25 to 100cm. There is more rainfall near
the coast. Most of the rain is caused by cyclonic weather. It falls throughout the year
but maximum in summer. In winter, it takes the form of snow which may remain on the
ground for 5-7 months.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 175

Natural vegetation and animals

The coniferous forests form one of the greatest forest belts in this region. These trees are

able to survive in cool temperature and in a short growing season. The
trees grow slowly because water is frozen and roots get water only for
4-5 months in a year. There are very few species among which pine, fir,
hemlock, larch, cedar and spruce are predominant. They are evergreen
and have small needle-like leaves to protect against drought. The trees
look cone-shaped and the branches are short and remain drooping to let
the snow slip down. This type of dense coniferous forest is called Taiga
in Canada and Russia.

There are very few animals and most of them are small. They are sturdy, Pine tree
have short ears and tails and a thick covering of fur. Musk, rat, fox, otter,
squirrel, moose, elk, bears etc are the common animals here.

People and mode of life Fig: Lumbering

The cool temperate zone is sparsely populated. They
cover 10% of the world's surface but have only 1% of the
population. Farming is not important because the growing
season is too short and the land is covered with snow for
long time. Lumbering is the main occupation of the people
here.

B. Tundra Climatic Zone

Location and area

The region lies roughly in 70°-90°
latitudes. Northern parts of Canada,
Alaska, Northern Scandinavia,
Greenland, Ice land and northern
Siberia etc in the north and Antarctica
in the south are the main areas of
Tundra climate.

Climate

Winters are very long, 9 to 10 months

with severe cold. The ground is covered

with snow. Temperature is below freezing Fig: Tundra Climatic Zone

point everywhere between –30° – 40°C. Winter is a period of darkness as well as of cold.

Summers are short, 2 or 3 months and comparatively warm. Temperature may rise to

10°C but the sun's rays are very slanted. So, their effect is not felt much. Rainfall is scanty,

rarely more than 25cm. Most of the rain falls in summer when the westerlies are strongest

in the region. In winter, rainfall takes the form of snow.

176 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Natural vegetation and animals

This region has frozen land and more cold. So, big trees

cannot grow in this region. It consists of dwarf alders,
junipers, willows, etc. During the short summer, the
land is bright with flowers and other are mosses,
lichens and herbs and shrubs.

It is the land of reindeer and the musk ox. The other

common animals are polar bear, wolf, blue fox, Arctic Reindear
fox, Arctic hare, penguin, whale, seal etc. All animals

have developed means of keeping their bodies warm. They usually

have thick fur outside and a woolly undercoat.The penguin is the most

important bird of the Tundra and is

wonderfully adapted to the intense

cold of the region. Its thick feather

and the air cell in the individual hair

makes an excellent protection from

the cold. Its long, flat hoofs are Penguine

suitable for travelling across the
Seal snow. It can swim as its coat is waterproof. Similarly,

whales and seals have thick fur inside their body which keeps warm and protects them

from cold.

People and mode of life: The population is

sparse because the struggle for existence is intense.

Mostly Eskimos or Inuit live in Tundra region. They

have semi-nomadic life. They spend their time in

hunting, fishing or trapping according to the season.

They live in the house called igloo made of blocks

of ice. In summer, their houses are made of tent, the

skin of seal. These are called Tupiks. The traditional Igloo
Inuits are excellent hunter and fisher man and they

depend greatly upon the sea life. They use the boat called kayak and weapons like axe,

bow and arrow, spears, harpoon etc. to kill the animals and seal. Dogs known as huskies

are very useful. People wear furry hoods over their heads, fur gloves and fur lined boots

with very thick clothes made of fur and skin.

But the life of modern Inuits has greatly changed. They use motor boat, gun, rifle and
firearms to kill animals. They have permanent and modern house. They wear modern

JBD Social Studies Book 10 177

dress. Their children go to school, watch television and use other modern amenities. They
have big farms sets up by government to rear reindeer.
There is no permanent settlement in Antarctica because there is thick layer of ice, no place
to practise agriculture and always cold. However, scientists and explorers are making of
research studies in Antarctica.

1 Short answer questions

a. Why is there always cold in frigid/polar region? Give reasons.
b. Write down the similarities and differences between Polar region and Himalaya

region of Nepal in a table.
c. Look at the picture and answer the questions below:


i. What do you think they are doing?
ii. What are they using?
iii. Write two differences in their way of living.

d. How are animals adopted in cold region? Explain giving examples of penguin.
e. The people of Northern polar region are the citizens of rich and developed countries.

However, they are far from modern life. Why? Give your logic.

2 Questions for more practice

Insert the following places in the map of world:
an area of Inuit settlement, Greenland, 90°N latitude, Alaska Antarctic circle, Arctic
circle, Iceland, Taiga area, Antarctica

178 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson Natural Vegetation and
Wildlife Around the World
7

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to

• tell the impact of climate on natural vegetation and wild life in the world.
• explain the natural vegetations found in the world

Climate is one of the natural elements which greatly influence the growth and type of
natural vegetation. The areas having more rainfall and temperature have big and tall
trees with broad and evergreen leaves. Small and soft nature trees are found in cold places
whereas deciduous type of forest can be seen in mild climatic region. Thus, we cannot
grow tall and big trees like coconut in Solukhumbu and in the same way rhododendron
does not grow in the Terai because of unfavourable climate. So, there are different kinds
of vegetation zones found in the world. An equatorial region having hot and wet climate
has evergreen tropical forest likewise in cold region coniferous and small vegetation like
mosses and lichens can survive.

Natural vegetation and animals make themselves adoptive according to the climatic
condition. Unless plants and animals adapt themselves to their environment they cannot
survive. Plants do this by modifying their organs such as the trunk or the leaves or the
roots, etc. They make long roots, broad leaves, conical shape, needle leaves, evergreen
and deciduous, etc. in order to survive in various types of climate. The xerophyte trees
have long root, no leaves and have very soft trunk in order to survive in extreme climatic
condition of desert.

Animals may develop humps for storage or thick fur or hair for protection against cold or
be fleet footed in order to escape their enemies.

According to climatic zones, there are twelve natural vegetation regions in the world. But,
broadly these are divided into five types based on their basic characteristics of adaptation.

A. Tropical Evergreen Forest Fig: Tropical Evergreen Forest
JBD Social Studies Book 10 179
The world's dense vegetation is found in equatorial
climate region. The great heat, plenty of sunshine and
rain are ideal for the dense growth of trees. The trees
are very tall upto the height of 30-40 m and form a
canopy underneath. The leaves of trees are broad and

always green in nature. There is a great variety of trees and is very rich in bio-diversity.
The dense and evergreen forest of Amazon Basin is called Selvas. Rubber, Mahagony, Teak
Ebony, Cinchona are the economically important plants in this forest. The bark of these
trees that yields Quinine alkaloids is used to treat Malaria.

Animal life matches the natural vegetation. Because of the lack of sun light beneath
the animals, they spend their time in trees. Monkeys, apes, sloths, tree lizards, flying
squirrels, turtles, alligators, crocodiles, snakes, elephants, Rhinos hippopotamus etc are
some examples of animals found in this forest.

B. Deciduous Forest

This vegetation is found mostly in monsoon

climate region. The summers are hot and rainy

and winters are cold and dry and average annual

rainfall is nearly 120cm in this region. The forest

varies according to the rainfall and temperature.

In area, of heavy rainfall, there are dense forests

and scanty and soft forest is found in light rainfall

areas. The trees of deciduous forest have broad Fig : Deciduous Forest

leaves, big trunks and have more branches. The trees

shed their leaves in the winter season in order to protect water from extra transparency.

The trees are not tall. The forest is important in economic point of view. Trees are used

for making furniture and also as building materials. Oak, Deudar, Bamboo, Mapple, Teak

etc are some of the plant species of the forests.

There are many animals in the forests. Tigers, Cheetah, Leopards, Bears, Jackal, and
varieties of snakes and variety of birds including crow, peacock, sparrow, rook, etc. are
found in deciduous forest of monsoon region.

C. Grassland

In some places, there are big natural grasslands in

the world. Rainfall is insufficient to grow trees and

the seasonal rain allows only grass to grow. Trees

grow along the banks of the streams. They are of

broad leave and are often flat topped or umbrella

shaped. Most of the trees are drought resistant and

shed their leaves in the cool dry season. They have

huge trunks and store up water during short rainy

season. There are many plants with underground Fig: Grassland

stems and long root which store food in them. Willows, alders, spiky acacia and baobs,

etc are the main trees found in grassland regions. Mainly, this region covers the vast areas

of short and coarse grass. These grasslands are called differently in different continents.

180 JBD Social Studies Book 10

They are Savanna in Africa, Prairie in North America, Pampass in South America, Veld
in Africa, Dawns in Australia and Steppes in Russia, Lianos in Venezuela and Campos in
Argentina. Savanna, Lianos and Campos are tropical grasslands and other are temperate
grasslands.

Great number of animals and more varieties of animal species are found in grassland
region, mostly in Savanna grassland. These animals can be classified as herbivorous and
carnivorous. The leaf and grass eating animals are zebra, gazelle, deer, anteater, warthog,
rabbits etc and lion, leopard, panther, Jackal, hyena, elephants, rhinoceros, crocodiles,
alligators, giant lizards, hippopotamus, snakes, wild dogs, gophers, antelopes, wild asses,
wolves, etc are also found here. Because of these varieties of animals, the Savanna region
of Africa is called zoo of the world.

D. Desert Type of Forest

The vegetation found in deserts is called desert type of forest/vegetation. The vegetation

of deserts is admirably adopted in its environment. Most of the plants survive by adopting,
various devices to prevent loss of moisture through evaporation. Desert plants have large
and long root system. This enables them to gather water quickly and deep tap roots

collect water from moist layers of soil underground.
Their stomata have more hairs and guard cells to
prevent excess evaporation. Similarly, desert plants
have fat, leathery and leafless stems and leaves are
coated with wax which prevent water loss due to
evaporation. Some species of xerophytic (desert)
plants are cacti, yuccas, date palms, eholla, fleshy
and throny plants, etc.

Fig : Cactus All desert animals have different devices to survive.

Most of them are small and move about only in the cool hours of night or early evening.

They have ability to go without water for some time. Some animals live in burrows to

escape the heat as well as their enemies. Birds live inside the cactus. Desert fox eats small

creature and gets liquid from then blood.

Camel Desert fox Rat Bird
JBD Social Studies Book 10 181

E. Coniferous Forest

The coniferous forests form one of the greatest forest belts in cool temperate area of polar

region. These trees are able to survive in great ranges of temperature and in a short

growing season. The trees grow slowly and are in

evergreen in nature. They have small needle-like

leaves to protect against drought. The trees look

cone-shaped and the branches are short and

remain drooping to enable the snow to slip down.

There are very few species, among which pine, fir,

spruce, hemlock, larch and cedar are predominate.

The soft and dense coniferous forest of Canada

and Russia is called Taiga. Russia and Canada are

making more economic progress by using Taiga forest. Fig: Coniferous Forest

Very few animals are found there. They are small, sturdy, have short ears and tails and
thick covering of fur. Musk, rat, fox, otter, snow leopard, polar bear, mouse, elk, squirrel
etc are some common animals in this forest.

1 Short answer questions

a. 'The characteristic of natural vegetation differs with the features of various
climate.' Write with reference to different natural vegetations and climate
regions of the world.

b. Describe with examples how plants and animals adapt themselves in different
types of climate.

c. 'The coniferous forest is economically important'. How? Explain with examples.
d. Look at the picture and answer the following questions:

i. Which vegetation zone is indicated by the given picture.
ii. How does it make fit to survive in that place.
e. Write any four characteristics of deciduous forest.

2 Long answer question

Complete the following table.

Types of forest Main characteristics Plant species Animal Species

182 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson Effect of Climate and Geographical
Diversity on Human Life
8

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to

• describe the effects of climate on human life.
• mention the impact of geographical diversity on lifestyle.

Geographical land structure and climate are the main factors of influencing the way of an
individual, the type of settlements and standard of their living. These two environmental
elements directly affect the culture, health, economic activities, working capacity and
construction materials. People have to adjust themselves in diverse climate and land
structure. The land structure and climate in the world is diverse. Therefore, the way
of living and their economic activities are not the same in all parts of the world. The
people living in equatorial region are different than the people living in polar region.
Economic activities, way of living, nature, shape and size of houses of the people in these
two climatic regions are totally different. Food, cloth, occupation, culture, civilization,
religion, developmental work, economic activities are directly influenced by climate and
land structure.

Nepal is divided into three geographical regions and it has diverse climate in these three
regions. Thus, the Nepalese lifestyle is different in these three regions. The people of
Terai region wear loose and light clothes made of cotton. They eat daal, bhat and chapati.
Houses are made up of mud, bamboo and wood. Agriculture is the main occupation. They
grow paddy, oil seed, sugarcane, jute, tobacco, wheat and other food and cash crops.
Similarly, the way of living in northern part of Nepal is different than Terai region. People
in Himalayan region wear thick clothes made of wool. They drink a lot of tea made of
ghee and salt and also drink local alcohol, chhyang or Tongba to keep themselves warm.

Their houses are small. They are made of mud and stone. The window and door of the
house are also less and small in size. Animal husbandry is the main occupation of the
people. Apple, buckwheat, Uwa, potato are the main favoring there. People in the hilly
region are of different nature. People wear seasonal clothes. They grow different crops.
Maize, millet, wheat, vegetables, soya beans, pulses etc are the crops in this region.

In this way, the people of cold and high altitudinal areas are strong, active and laborious.
It is compulsion for them to adjust in difficult situation. The following examples further
prove that the lifestyle of people is influenced by climate and land structure.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 183

Example 1

The Inuits and Eskimos of North Pole live in developed countries like Canada and Russia

but they are lagging behind in human development. They

have nomadic life. They use traditional weapons such as

harpoon spear, Kayak (boat) and Umiak. These people are

excellent hunter and fishermen and depend greatly upon the

sea life. They kill seal, whale and reindeer. They live in igloos,

huts or crude shelter made of skill and supported by drift

wood and whole bones. They wear very warm clothes made Eskimos
of leather and fur.

Example 2

The climate is considered very suitable for physical
and mental activity in temperate zone of Europe,
North America and Asia. The people living in this
area are more active, progressive, civilized and
educated.

There is an abundance of highly skilled labour in

this area from the early time. Almost all scientific

inventions and researches have been developed Fig. European People

here. These nations have made full use of the

natural advantages by developing their energies to

industry and commerce. The great physical development and economic progress of the

world is made in this region.

Example 3

The Semang of Malaysia, Kubus of Sumatra, Dayaks Fig. Semang People
of Borneo, Red Indian of Amazon Basin and Pygmies
of Congo Basin have still primitive lifestyle. They are
the people of equatorial (hot) region. They live by
hunting and gathering roots and fruits in tropical
rainforest. They are far from modern life. They
wear very little clothing made of leaves. They live
in thatched huts made from leaves of many kinds
of grasses and plants. They move from one place to
another in search of food. These nomadic people have
remained backward mainly due to the environment.

The reason of less development in polar and equatorial region is the climate and land
structure of these areas. There is very cold and frozen land in polar region. Most of the
time, the land is covered with snow. Construction and agriculture is very difficult there.
In the same way, high temperature and high humidity do not contribute to human comfort.
Accumulations of water in plain land structure helps the spread of diseases such as

184 JBD Social Studies Book 10

malaria, yellow fever and sleeping sickness. The moisture and warmth favour rapid
growth of disease carrying insects and micro-organisms.

The religion is also affected by the climate and land

structure. The religious rituals and practices of Hindu,

Islam, Buddhists, Christian and other religions are

influenced by climate and land structure. For example, the

Islam religion was originated from the desert area, Saudi

Arabia. Therefore, sand is compulsory for the construction

of Masjid. The followers of Islam religion wear loose cloth

in order to save them from high temperature of desert.

Fig. Kufi They use white cloth for reflecting sun light. They grow
hair in head and wear net cap (Kufi) to protect their head

from direct sun light. Similarly they grow long beard in

their face to protect skin of the face. They had suffered from the sun because of its heat

in desert. So, they began the culture of respecting moon. That's why moon is worshipped

in Islam religion.

1 Short answer questions

a. How does climate affect lifestyle? Describe with example of Nepal.
b. You may have visited the distinct climatic region than your. How do you feel

when you reach there? Describe.
c. The lifestyle of the people who live near the to north pole and equatorial

region is different due to the effect of climate. Are you satisfied with this
statement? Give reasons.
d. The countries located in temperate climatic region are developed. Explain.
e. What are the bases of different religious practises in your community?

2 Long answer question

How do climate and land structure influence the mode of life of the people? Describe
with examples.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 185

Lesson North America :
Physical Features
9

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• explain physical features of North America

General

North America is situated in the northern hemisphere. It extends from tropical zone in the
south to polar zone in the north. Geographically, it is located between 7°12'N to 88°7'N
latitude and 52°37'W to 172°27'E longitudes. It is the third largest continent in the world.
It has an area of 23,724,400 sq. km. It was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492
AD. Many people from the world live in this continent. It is the continent of diverse
cultures and races.

Physical Features

North America is an area of great
geographical diversity. It consists of
plain in the centre throughout the
length, a high range of mountains in
the west and a lower range in the east.
The coast is largely indented and has a
magnificent system of rivers and large
lakes. On the basis of these diversities,
North America can be divided into
three major land structures.

a. The western high mountain
range:

In the western part of this
continent, a mountain Cordillera
has extended from Alaska in the
north to the Panama Canal in the
south to a distance of about 6500
km. The western mountain range
consists of several mountain
chains running from north to

186 JBD Social Studies Book 10

south. Mt. McKinley (6194 m) is the highest mountain peak of North America in
Alaska. Grand Canyon (1800 m deep) the
deepest gorge, Death valley, Colorado River,
Californian desert, Sierra Nevada range etc
are located in this mountain range.

b. The Central Plains

A lowland area has extended between the

eastern highland and western mountain

range. It stretches from Hudson Bay in the Fig. Grand Canyon
north to Gulf of Mexico in the south. It is

called the central plain area. This area gently undulating lowland is formed by the

denudation of rivers. Canadian Shield around the Hudson Bay in the north and

Mississippi plain near the Gulf of Mexico in the south are the main two lowlands of

this area. Mississippi plain is drained by Mississippi and Missouri River. It is one of

the biggest and most fertile plains in the world. Canadian Shield has extensive

grassland called Prairies.

c. The Eastern highlands Fig. Appalachian highland

The eastern highlands also called
Appalachian highlands are old fold
mountains. There are three highlands, they
are plateau of Greenland, the Laurentian
highland and Appalachian highlands. East
of the eastern highlands lies in the Atlantic
coastal plain.

River and Lakes

There are many famous rivers in this
continent. Most of them originate in
the western high mountain range and
follow towards Pacific Ocean. Some of
the rivers drain in the central lowland
and mix in the Atlantic Ocean. Yukon,
Columbia, Fraser, Colorado, Mississippi,
Missouri, Ohio, Rio-Grande, St.
Lawrence, Mackenzie etc are the main
important rivers of North America.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 187

All over the continent, there are many famous lakes. The Great Lake consists of five
important lakes i.e. Lake Superior, Huron, Erie,
Ontario, and Michigan, which borders between
the USA and Canada. Other important lakes are:
Great Slave, Nipigon, Great Salt Lake, Winnipeg
etc. A world famous and beautiful Niagara Falls is
located between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.
Superior lake is the largest fresh water lake in the
world.

Fig. Superior Lake

1 Short answer questions

a. Describe the main physical features of western high mountain range.
b. List the physical features of North America and describe any one of them.
c. Complete the table given below;

Name Features Location

Mississippi _______________________ _______________________

McKinley _______________________ _______________________

Superior Lake _______________________ _______________________

Niagara Falls _______________________ _______________________

2 Long questions

Draw an outline map of North America and insert the following:
Rocky Mountain range, Appalachian, Great Lake, Canada, Mississippi River, Niagara
Falls, USA, Gulf of Mexico, Hudson Bay.

188 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Lesson North America :

10 Natural Resources and Economic Activities

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• describe the natural resources of North America.
• state the economic activities of North America.

Natural Resources

North America is very rich in natural resources. The main natural resources are as follows:

Forest resources
North America extends from Torrid Zone to Frigid Zone. So, it has variety of forests
according to climatic belts. There is vast area of coniferous forest (Taiga) in the northern
part of this continent. Temperate grassland and tropical rain forests are found in the
middle and southern parts respectively.

Soil resources
Most of the parts of North America have alluvial soil. The central low land is made of
mud, silt etc. deposited by river. This plain is rich in humus. The soil of Prairie is also rich.
But the Tundra region and western mountain region have not so fertile soil.

Water resources
This continent has plenty of rivers and lakes. Most of the rivers and lakes have a
fine navigable water-ways. Some rivers and lakes have been used for irrigation and
hydroelectricity generation. Rivers and lakes are also used to supply drinking water in
Canada, USA and Mexico.

Mineral resources
North America has abundant mineral resources. These minerals are the sources of
industrial development in this continent. Coal, iron-ore, petroleum, gold, nickel, silver,
copper, asbestos, zinc and uranium are the main mineral deposits in different parts and
countries of North America.

Economic Activities

Canada and USA
Northern part of Canada is occupied by the native race, Inuit. But now different people
have migrated from different parts of the world to Canada. Immigrants from Britain and
France also live here. They are active and hard working. USA is the other big country of
North America. From 200 to 300 years ago, the people from all over the world came and

JBD Social Studies Book 10 189

settled in the USA. The process of migration is still continuing in the USA. Most of the
people of the USA came from Europe. About 12% of the total population is black. Their
ancestors were either brought or came from Africa. Economic activities of Canada and
USA are described below.

Industries

Nearly 49% of the total land is covered with coniferous forest in Canada. Large pulp
industries are run from raw materials from the soft Taiga forest. Logs are floated down
the rivers to saw mills. Large scale industries based on minerals are also run in Canada
and the USA. Textile, iron and steel, petroleum refining, electrical machinery, chemical
industries etc are the other big industries in the USA and Canada. About 15-20% people
are involved in industrial sectors in these countries.

Agriculture

Extensive type of agriculture system is practised

in United States of America and Canada. People

mostly cultivate big farms with modern machines. Fig. Grazing in Prairies
Scientific methods of cultivation and heavy dose
of fertilizers are used to increase agriculture.
Large amount of wheat grows on the Prairies.
Canada is the second largest exporter of wheat in
the world. Potatoes are widely grown in the east
and fruits specially apples are grown in the west.

The main agricultural regions of the USA are:

i. Cotton, sugarcane, paddy are grown in the Gulf of Mexico in the south east.

ii. Peanuts, tobacco, sugar beet are grown in coastal areas in the east.

iii. Wheat, maize, soyabean etc are grown in the central USA.

iv. Oranges and grapes are grown in

south-east and south-west USA.

Animal rearing Fig. Tourism in America

Cattle and pigs are reared near the Great lake
areas. These animals are reared for meat and milk.
Cattle kept for beef are reared in the temperate
grassland in the interior and western USA. There
are modern slaughter houses for processing and
packing meat. The USA is the largest producer of
beef in the world. Furry animals are trapped for fur
in Canada.

190 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Service
About 70% people are engaged in service sectors in these countries. They provide different
services to the people. They are involved in hospitals, educational institutions, hotels,
restaurants, tourism, transportation, communication and in government job.

Fisheries
The people in coastal region are involved in fishery. Fish are caught, processed, canned
and exported.

1 Short answer questions

a. Describe the natural resources of North America briefly.
b. Mention the agricultural regions of the USA.
c. Very few people in the USA and Canada are involved in agriculture, however,

they export agricultural product. How? Explain.
d. Describe the economic activities of the people of North America.

2 Long questions

a. Draw an outline map of North America and insert the following:
Taiga area, a place of tropical rain, an area of wheat production, tropic of

cancer, an area of iron-ore, Prairie region, an area of gold mine, Tundra region,
an area of orange production.

Extra Questions for More Practice
Consult an Atlas and fill the following in the separate maps of North America.
a. Mt. McKinley, Grand Canon, Hudson Bay, Mississippi river, Appalachian

Mountain, Prairies, area of winter rainfall, New York city, Los Angles.
b. Bering sea, Atlantic Ocean, West Indies, River Mackenzie, Great Slave Lake,

Rocky Mountain, Ottawa, Gulf of California, Montreal
c. Alaska, Death Valley, North Atlantic Ocean, Great Plain, River Colorado,

Caribbean Sea, Lake of Salty Water, Panama Canal, Prairies.
d. St. Lawrence, Bermuda, Manitoba, Victoria Island, Cotton production area,

Yukon River, Gulf Stream, New Foundland, Quebec.
e. Ontario, Alberta, N.W. territory, Haiti, Bafin island, Gulf stream current,

Superior Lake, area of Inuit; Van Couver
f. Huran lake, San Francisco, Pacific Ocean, Florida, Cuba, Greenland,

Washington D.C. Niagara falls, Chicago.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 191

Lesson

11 South America : Physical Features

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to
• introduce south America and its physical features.

General

South America is the fourth largest continent in area. It has approximately 17827000 sq.
km. area. It is triangular in shape and somewhat smaller and less favoured for settlement
than North America. It lies between 12°27'N to 55°59' S latitude and 34°47'W to 81°21'W
longitude.

Physical Features

The physical landscape of
South America is somewhat
similar to North America. It has
high rugged mountain ranges,
vast plains and older but less
rugged mountains. On the basis
of these features, the continent
is divided into three physical
divisions.

The Andes Mountain
Range

This mountain range extends
7200 km from Venezuela in the
north to Tierra del Fuego in the
south along the western coast.
It is the longest mountain range
in the world. Many young
fold mountains and plateaus
have formed this range. Some
of the peaks rise over 6000
meters above the sea level. Mt.

192 JBD Social Studies Book 10

Aconcagua that lies in Argentina is the tallest mountain peak of South America with
6960 m. height. The world's driest part, Atacama Desert, world's highest freshwater lake,
Titicaca Lake and the largest Bolivian plateau are also located here.

The Central Lowlands Fig : Amazon River
Fig : Angel Falls
The central lowlands extend between Andes
and eastern highlands. It is drained by
Orinoco River in the north, the Amazon River
in the middle and Parana and Paraguay in the
south. The central plain has the vast grassland
called Pampas. Amazon Basin is covered with
tropical rainforest which is known as Selvas. A
desert, Patagonia is also located in the central
lowlands.

The Eastern Highlands

In the eastern part of south America, an
old mountain range extended from Guiana
highland, in the north to Brazilian highland
in the south is known as eastern highland.
It has steep slopes along the Atlantic coast.
It consists of two highlands, the Guiana
highland and the Brazilian highland. The
Longest waterfall, Angel falls having 979m
height lies in Venezuela, Guiana highland
tropical grassland called Llanas stretches in
Guiana and Campos in Brazilian highlands.

River and Lakes

South America has many perennial rivers.
The Amazon River is the largest river in the
world in terms of volume of water. Maranon,
Negro, Madeira, Tapazos etc are the tributaries
of Amazon River. The Rio-de-la-plata, Cauca,
Magdalena Paraguay, Uruguay, Parana,
Orinoco, Sao Francisco, Colorado and Chubut
are the main rivers of this continent.

JBD Social Studies Book 10 193

South America has few large lakes. Maracaibo, located in Venezuela is the largest lake
of this continent. Lake Titicaca, Poopo and Murrin are the other main lakes of South
America.

2 Short answer questions

a. Describe the physical features of South America in short.
b. Give a brief description of the Andes mountain range.
c. Complete the following table:

Name Features Location

The driest desert __________________ _________________

The biggest fresh water lake __________________ _________________

The temperate grassland __________________ _________________

The tropical grassland __________________ _________________

d. Amazon Basin is covered with dense tropical rainforest. Give reasons.

3 Long question

Draw an outline map of South America and insert the following:

Orinoco river, Patagonia desert, Maracaibo lake, Mt. Aconcagua, Bolivian plateau,
Guiana highland, Angel falls, Selvas, Pampas area.

194 JBD Social Studies Book 10