NCERT Class 4 EVS Our Wondrous World Chapter 03 Nature Trail PDF Download

Unit 2: Life Around Us

About the Unit

Nature is home to a variety of plants, animals, birds and insects, each playing an important role in our world. Through observation and hands-on activities, students will explore the unique features of different plants and animals, understand their interdependence, and develop a deep appreciation for the environment. Through observation and experience, students will imbibe the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' - the world as one family.

This unit highlights the connection between nature and culture, showing how traditional practices are associated with different aspects of nature. From studying plants and animals to discovering tribal art, and medicinal plants, students will engage in meaningful experiences that promote conservation and sustainable living. Interactive activities, including festivals and games, will help students recognise the harmony in nature and their role in protecting it.

Note to the Teacher

This unit consists of Chapter 3 - Nature Trail and Chapter 4 - Growing up with Nature. The key concepts covered in these chapters are listed below.

Chapter 3

• 'Nature Trail' guides students to explore the variety of plants and animals around them, and study their unique features. It shows how all animals and plants are deeply connected to each other. Students will observe the birds, leaves and animals, and play the 'web of life' game to understand the interdependence in nature and society. A variety of engaging activities and safety lessons help them appreciate, and care for the natural world.

Chapter 4:

• 'Growing up with Nature' portrays how nature and culture are deeply connected in our daily lives - from the food we eat to the traditions we follow. Students will discover some unique features of trees, flowers, tribal art and medicinal plants, while learning about the ways and means of sustainable living. They will also learn the medicinal values of different plants through some engaging activities and safety lessons that will help them appreciate, and protect their environment.

Teacher to Facilitate

• Teacher and students will collect various samples from nature, such as leaves, seeds, flowers, etc., and may use in various activities.
• Arrange nature walks, role-plays and 'web of life' games, and prepare observation sheets for students to record footprints, movements of birds and plant details.
• Provide materials for leaf tracing, natural dye making and traditional house models, and guide students in food-picking activities and nature-inspired crafts.
• Organise visits to nature parks, farms or plant nurseries, or invite experts from community or farmers to interact with students about nature conservation and traditional practices.

Chapter 3: Nature Trail

Have you ever seen a banyan tree with its hanging roots touching the ground?

A coloured bird diving into the water?

A spider weaving its web?

Butterflies flying around a flower?

Nature is full of amazing animals and plants. Let us explore more about them!

The Adventure Begins

The students along with their teacher got ready for a nature trail at Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh.

Note to the Teacher

Encourage students to locate Madhya Pradesh on the Map of India.

As they reached the forest entrance, the students got excited to see a lot of tall trees and chirping birds.

Abha: Welcome to Pachmarhi!

Teacher: This is Abha Didi, a nature scientist who studies plants and animals. She will guide us in exploring the forest.

Students: Abha Didi, will we see monkeys, deer, snakes, eagles and tigers on the way?

Abha: That is what we have to find out! We must also make sure that we do not harm the plants and animals in the forest.

Write

1. Can you think of rules that should be followed while you are in a zoo or a forest?

   For example,

   (a) We should not feed birds.

   (b) ....................................

   (c) ....................................

   (d) ....................................

   Now, look at the safety rules given below and match them with your list. Have you missed out any of the rules given?

Safety Rules

DOs and DON'Ts

1. Please be careful in a new place.
2. Please do not tease animals.
3. Please do not feed animals.
4. Please do not damage trees, and flowers.
5. Please do not bring pets, firearms, or any kind of weapons.
6. Please do not bring polythene bags.
7. Please do not damage public utilities.
8. Please do not throw any garbage in the forest.

Discuss

Why are these rules important to be followed?

Teacher's Note

When you visit a forest or zoo, these safety rules protect both you and the animals. For example, feeding animals can make them sick or dependent on people, and damaging plants destroys their habitat. Before you visit any natural place, always check what rules apply there and think about why each one matters.

Key Points

• A nature trail is a guided walk through forests or natural areas where you can observe and study plants and animals in their natural habitat.
• Following safety rules in forests and zoos is important to protect animals, plants and yourself from harm.
• Different plants and animals live together in nature and are deeply connected to each other.
• When visiting natural places, we should respect the environment by not feeding animals, damaging plants, or leaving garbage behind.

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