NCERT Solutions Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 06 Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change

Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 Solutions

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Question 1. Ramesh, an 11-year-old boy, developed a few pimples on his face. His mother told him that this is because of ongoing biological changes in his body. (i) What could be the possible reasons for the development of these pimples on his face? (ii) What can he do to get some relief from these pimples?
Answer:
(i) Growing up makes the oil glands under the skin more active. These glands make extra oil, which can block the tiny holes in the skin. When these pores get blocked, pimples can form. It is a completely normal change that happens during puberty.
(ii) Keeping the skin clean is very helpful. Ramesh can wash his face twice a day to clean away dirt and oil. He must not touch or pop the pimples. Eating healthy food is also good. If the pimples do not go away, he should see a doctor.
In simple words: Pimples happen because the body makes more oil during teenage years, which blocks skin pores. Washing the face regularly and not scratching them can help.

Exam Tip: For biology questions on acne, mention "increased activity of oil glands" and "clogged skin pores" to get full marks.

Question 2. Which of the following food groups would be a better option for adolescents and why? (Assuming image (i) shows junk food and image (ii) shows a balanced meal)
Answer: The balanced meal shown in image (ii) is the best choice. Teenagers grow very fast, so they need healthy food to support this growth. A balanced plate has all the nutrients we need, like protein for muscle strength, vitamins, minerals for bones and blood, and carbohydrates for energy. Fast food or junk food does not have these important nutrients.
In simple words: Teenagers need healthy, balanced meals to grow strong and stay energetic. Junk food does not have the nutrients the body needs.

Exam Tip: Explain that balanced diets provide all essential nutrients, whereas junk food lacks them, to secure complete marks.

Question 3. Unscramble the underlined word in the following sentences: (i) The discharge of blood in adolescent girls which generally occurs every 28-30 days is nstmnoiaretu. (ii) The hoarseness in the voice of adolescent boys is due to enlarged iceov xob. (iii) Secondary sexual characteristics are natural signs that the body is preparing for adulthood and mark the onset of urtypeb. (iv) We should say NO to lahoclo and srugd as they are addictive.
Answer:
(i) nstmnoiaretu - menstruation
(ii) iceov xob - voice box
(iii) urtypeb - puberty
(iv) lahoclo, srugd - alcohol, drugs
In simple words: Rearrange the mixed-up letters to find the correct science terms for the changes in our bodies.

Exam Tip: Learn the correct spellings of these biological terms so you do not make mistakes in your exams.

Question 4. Shalu told her friend, “Adolescence brings only physical changes, like growing taller or developing body hair.” Is she correct? What would you change in this description of adolescence?
Answer: Shalu is wrong. Growing up is not just about physical changes like height or hair. It is a time when many internal changes happen, such as girls starting their periods as they mature. It also brings big emotional shifts, like mood changes, feeling more sensitive, and experiencing new social relationships.
In simple words: Teenagers go through both outer changes in their bodies and inner changes in their feelings and minds.

Exam Tip: Be sure to write about physical, internal, and emotional changes to show a complete understanding of adolescence.

Question 5. During a discussion in the class, some of the students raised the following points. What questions would you ask them to check the correctness of these points? (i) Adolescents do not need to worry about behavioural changes. (ii) If someone tries a harmful substance once, they can stop anytime they want.
Answer:
(i) Since teenagers experience emotional changes and mood swings, isn't it vital to learn about these shifts so we can make wiser decisions?
(ii) Since things like alcohol and drugs are highly addictive and cause a strong habit, doesn't that make it very hard for a person to quit, even if they only tried it once?
In simple words: Learning about emotional changes helps us handle them better, and knowing how easily bad habits form helps us stay away from drugs.

Exam Tip: Frame your answers as clear questions that challenge the statements using scientific facts from the chapter.

Question 6. Adolescents sometimes experience mood swings. On some days, they feel very energetic and happy, while on other days, they may feel low. What other behavioural changes are associated with this age?
Answer: Apart from changes in mood, teenagers may also experience the following:

• Feeling more sensitive and easily hurt
• Having much stronger feelings than when they were younger
• Spending more time with friends and copying how they behave
• Wanting to know more about the world and trying new things
• Taking part in creative activities or helping others in the community

Exam Tip: List at least three distinct behavioral changes such as sensitivity, peer influence, and curiosity to score high.

Question 7. While using a toilet, Mohini noticed that used sanitary pads were scattered near the bin. She got upset and shared her feelings with her friends. They discussed the importance of menstrual hygiene and healthy sanitary habits. What menstrual hygiene and sanitary habits would you suggest to your friends?
Answer: Here are some helpful hygiene habits to follow:

• Keep your body very clean, especially during your period.
• Use safe and clean things, like clean sanitary pads or reusable cloth pads.
• Change your pads often throughout the day whenever needed.
• Wrap up used pads in clean paper before throwing them in the bin. Do not throw them on the floor or flush them down the toilet.
• Ask for clean and proper toilets in school and public areas.
• Talk openly about periods to stop the shame or confusion around them.

Exam Tip: Mentioning proper disposal methods (like wrapping in paper and using a bin) is a key point that examiners look for.

Question 8. Mary (11) developed a bulge on her neck and needed iodine-rich diet/medication. Manoj (12) developed a neck bump deemed normal. According to you, what could be the possible reason for advising Mary and Manoj differently?
Answer: Mary and Manoj have different bumps on their necks. Mary's swelling is likely goitre, which is an illness caused by not getting enough iodine. Her thyroid gland gets larger, so she needs a special diet and medicine. Manoj's bump is just the Adam's apple. This is the normal growing voice box that boys get during puberty, which is a natural part of growing up.
In simple words: Mary has a medical issue because of low iodine, while Manoj just has a growing voice box which is natural for boys.

Exam Tip: Differentiate clearly between the pathological condition "goitre" and the natural anatomical development "Adam's apple".

Question 9. During adolescence, the boys and girls undergo certain physical changes, a few of which are given below. Categorise these changes in the table provided: (i) Change in voice (ii) Development of breasts (iii) Growth of moustache (iv) Growth of facial hair (v) Pimples on the faces (vi) Growth of hair in the pubic region (vii) Growth of hair in armpits
Answer:

Exam Tip: Be careful with voice changes; though voice changes happen in both, it is much more noticeable in boys.

Question 10. Prepare a poster mentioning the tips for adolescents to live a healthy lifestyle.
Answer: A healthy poster for teenagers can include the following ideas:

• Eat Healthy Meals: Eat fruits, fresh vegetables, grains, and clean dairy. Make sure to get enough iron.
• Keep Moving: Play outdoor games, do sports, or exercise every day.
• Keep Clean: Take a bath daily and follow good hygiene habits.
• Be Nice to Others: Be kind when talking to people face-to-face or on the internet. Do not participate in online bullying.
• Stay Safe: Always say a strong "NO" to smoking, drinking, and drugs.
• Share Your Feelings: Talk to parents or teachers if you feel sad or moody.
• Sleep Well: Get enough rest so your body can grow and stay strong.

Exam Tip: When designing a lifestyle poster, group your tips into clear sections like Diet, Exercise, Hygiene, and Mental Health.

Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question. What is adolescence?
Answer: This is the stage of life that comes between being a child and being an adult, normally from age 10 to 19, where many bodily and mental changes happen.
In simple words: Adolescence is the teenage phase of growing up from a child into an adult.

Exam Tip: For this definition, remember to state the age group (10 to 19 years) to secure full marks.

Question. What are secondary sexual characteristics?
Answer: These are features such as a deeper voice and facial hair in boys, or breast growth in girls. They show that the body is maturing, but they are not directly used to make babies.
In simple words: These are physical signs, like facial hair on boys, that show someone is growing into a man or a woman.

Exam Tip: Mention examples like "voice change" or "facial hair" and note that they are not directly involved in reproduction.

Question. Name the hormone responsible for mood changes in adolescents.
Answer: Chemical messengers like estrogen in girls and testosterone in boys cause mood shifts during these years.
In simple words: Estrogen and testosterone are the chemicals in our bodies that cause us to feel different emotions suddenly.

Exam Tip: Remember to name both estrogen (for girls) and testosterone (for boys) when answering about hormonal mood changes.

Question. At what age does menstruation usually stop in women?
Answer: Periods usually stop for women when they are between 45 and 55 years old.
In simple words: Women stop having their monthly periods when they grow older, usually between the ages of 45 and 55.

Exam Tip: Be precise with the age range of 45 to 55 years to score complete marks.

Question. Why is personal hygiene important during adolescence?
Answer: Keeping clean is important because it stops germs from causing infections and keeps us healthy while our bodies are changing.
In simple words: Keeping our bodies clean stops skin problems and infections when we are growing.

Exam Tip: Focus on two key phrases: "preventing infections" and "supporting overall health".

Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 Short Answer Type Questions

Question. What physical changes are commonly observed during adolescence?
Answer: Common changes include growing taller and heavier, changes in voice, hair growing on the face and body, and getting pimples because of hormones.
In simple words: Teenagers grow taller, get a deeper voice, grow new body hair, and sometimes get pimples.

Exam Tip: List at least three physical changes, such as height increase, voice changes, and body hair growth, to get full marks.

Question. What is menstruation and why is it significant?
Answer: Menstruation is when blood flows out of a girl’s body once a month. This is a normal and healthy process that shows her body is becoming able to have a baby.
In simple words: It is a monthly flow of blood in girls that shows they are growing up normally and healthy.

Exam Tip: Explain both what it is (monthly blood flow) and its significance (healthy sign of growing up) for a complete answer.

Question. What are mood swings and how can adolescents manage them?
Answer: Mood swings mean feeling happy one moment and sad the next. Teenagers can handle these feelings by listening to music, playing sports, painting, writing in a diary, or talking to their parents or teachers.
In simple words: Sudden changes in how we feel are called mood swings. We can handle them by doing hobbies or talking to adults.

Exam Tip: When writing about how to manage mood swings, suggest at least two activities like sports, music, or talking to trusted adults.

Question. Why should adolescents avoid harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol?
Answer: These bad habits can become addictions very quickly. They damage the lungs, cause memory problems, and make the body weak. Staying away from them keeps us healthy for the rest of our lives.
In simple words: Tobacco and alcohol are addictive and bad for our health. Saying no keeps our body and mind safe.

Exam Tip: Mention key health issues like "lung damage" and "addiction" to explain the dangers of these substances.

Question. How does voice change in boys during adolescence?
Answer: The larynx, which is the voice box, grows larger in boys. This makes their voice sound much deeper and sometimes creates a visible bump on their neck. It happens because the body is making more hormones.
In simple words: Boys' voices get deeper because their voice box grows bigger during these years.

Exam Tip: Be sure to use the scientific term "larynx" alongside "voice box" to earn high marks.

Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 Descriptive Answer Type Questions

Question. Explain the importance of nutrition during adolescence.
Answer: Because the body is growing so fast, eating healthy food is very important. A diet with proteins helps build muscles, calcium makes bones strong, and carbohydrates give us energy. Iron and vitamin B12 are also needed to keep the blood healthy and prevent weakness, especially in girls.
In simple words: Eating healthy food gives teenagers the strength, strong bones, and energy they need to grow.

Exam Tip: Make sure to mention specific nutrients like proteins for muscle growth, calcium for bones, and iron to prevent anemia in girls.

Question. How can menstrual hygiene be maintained and why is it essential?
Answer: Girls can stay clean during their periods by using clean sanitary pads or cloth pads, changing them several times a day, and throwing them away safely. This is necessary to avoid infections, stay comfortable, and protect their health and dignity.
In simple words: Changing pads regularly and keeping clean stops infections and helps girls feel comfortable during their periods.

Exam Tip: Explain both "how" (using clean pads, changing often) and "why" (preventing infections, dignity) for a complete score.

Question. What are emotional changes in adolescence and how can they be handled positively?
Answer: Teenagers often feel very strong emotions like sudden anger, sadness, or extreme excitement. They might also feel easily hurt. To handle these feelings in a good way, they can try creative hobbies, help out in their community, talk to others, or practice slow breathing.
In simple words: Teenagers feel emotions very strongly, but doing hobbies, talking, and breathing slowly can help them stay calm.

Exam Tip: List both the types of emotional changes (mood swings, sensitivity) and positive coping methods (breathing, hobbies, talking).

Question. What is the role of physical activity in adolescent health?
Answer: Doing physical activities like playing sports or practicing yoga keeps the body fit and builds strength. It also makes teenagers feel happier, reduces stress, and builds their self-confidence.
In simple words: Playing and exercising make our bodies strong and help us feel happy and relaxed.

Exam Tip: Highlight both the physical benefits (fitness, stamina) and the mental benefits (confidence, stress reduction) in your answer.

Question. How does social media influence adolescents and what precautions should they take?
Answer: Social media helps teenagers learn and talk to friends, but it can also lead to online bullying or dangerous situations. To stay safe, teenagers must protect their private information, never share personal pictures with strangers, think carefully before uploading anything, and ask an adult for help if they feel unsafe.
In simple words: Social media is fun, but teenagers must be careful not to share private details or photos online.

Exam Tip: Clearly balance the benefits (learning, connection) with specific safety tips (privacy, not sharing photos) to secure maximum points.

Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 Exploring Questions

Question. Why is it important to break myths and taboos around menstruation?
Answer: Stopping false beliefs about periods helps girls feel confident, healthy, and respected. When we learn the real science behind periods, it replaces fear with kindness, making it easier for girls to get the supplies and support they need.
In simple words: Teaching scientific facts about periods removes shame and helps girls stay healthy and happy.

Exam Tip: Emphasize that scientific understanding replaces shame and fear with dignity and proper healthcare support.

Question. How does hormone activity affect adolescents?
Answer: Hormones made in organs like the testes and ovaries start physical changes like growing taller and body hair. They also cause mood shifts and help the body mature so it can reproduce, helping children grow into adults.
In simple words: Hormones are body chemicals that guide our transition from childhood to adulthood by changing how we look and feel.

Exam Tip: Mention both physical changes (like growth) and emotional changes (like mood swings) caused by hormones.

Question. What can adolescents do if they face peer pressure to try harmful substances?
Answer: Teenagers should say a strong "NO" and stick to their choice. They should also talk to parents or teachers for help. Having supportive friends, learning about the dangers, and talking to counselors can also help them make the right decisions.
In simple words: Say "no" firmly, talk to a trusted adult, and stand your ground if friends press you to do something bad.

Exam Tip: Highlight the importance of "saying NO confidently" and "seeking help from trusted adults" in your response.

Question. How can schools support adolescents in handling change positively?
Answer: Schools can hold special classes about growing up, teach life skills, and provide clean toilets with sanitary pads. They can also offer counseling and teach internet safety. Letting students talk openly about their changes makes school a safe place to grow.
In simple words: Schools can help by teaching about growing up, providing clean toilets, and having counselors to talk to.

Exam Tip: Identify multiple support systems like "counseling", "hygiene facilities", and "educational programs" that schools can implement.

Question. What steps can be taken to prevent iron deficiency in adolescent girls?
Answer: Girls should eat foods with lots of iron, such as spinach, beans, and raisins. Government programs like MHS and Suvidha help by giving out free sanitary pads and health info. Getting regular medical check-ups and taking iron pills also help keep them healthy.
In simple words: Girls should eat green vegetables and raisins, take iron supplements if needed, and go for regular health checks.

Exam Tip: Name specific iron-rich foods (like spinach or raisins) and mention regular health checks or supplements for a complete answer.

Question. Why do adolescents face mood swings as mentioned in Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6?
Answer: In this chapter, we learn that mood swings are mainly caused by hormones changing in the body. The body begins making chemicals like estrogen and testosterone, which affect both growth and feelings. This is why teenagers might feel very happy and then suddenly become sad or angry. This is normal. To manage these shifts, they can play sports, enjoy music or dance, practice breathing exercises, and talk to adults they trust.
In simple words: Hormones in the body cause sudden changes in feelings, but staying active and talking to adults can help.

Exam Tip: Pinpoint "hormones like estrogen and testosterone" as the core physiological cause of emotional changes to earn full marks.

Question. What is menstruation and why is it important according to Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6?
Answer: This chapter describes menstruation as the monthly flow of blood from a girl's body. It starts during puberty and shows that her body is preparing to be able to have babies. It is important to know that this is a completely natural and healthy event. Using clean sanitary pads and keeping clean is crucial. Talking about it openly helps girls stay healthy, confident, and comfortable.
In simple words: Menstruation is a natural monthly blood flow that shows a girl is growing up healthy and her body is developing normally.

Exam Tip: Explain both aspects: why it happens (normal biological cycle) and why it is important (hygiene and reproductive health).

Question. Why is adolescence a vital stage of development according to Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6?
Answer: This chapter explains that adolescence is a key time of life between childhood and adulthood, usually from ages 10 to 19. During this phase, teens experience major physical, emotional, and social changes, all guided by hormones. To grow up healthy, they need good food, regular exercise, cleanliness, and kind guidance. Learning about these changes helps teenagers become confident, responsible adults.
In simple words: This is a key growth period where our bodies and minds change completely, preparing us to become adults.

Exam Tip: Define the age range (10-19) and highlight that physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects must all develop healthily during this stage.

Question. Why is Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 important for students to understand?
Answer: This chapter is useful because it teaches students about the changes in their bodies and feelings during their teenage years. It explains puberty, periods, emotions, healthy eating, and staying clean in a respectful manner. Understanding these topics helps teenagers feel more prepared, healthy, and confident as they grow up.
In simple words: This chapter helps us understand our growing bodies and minds so we can stay healthy and confident.

Exam Tip: Mention how knowing about physical and emotional changes helps students face puberty with confidence and healthy habits.

Question. Is it okay to feel emotional or moody during adolescence, as discussed in Chapter 6?
Answer: Yes, it is completely normal to feel moody or emotional during these years. Hormones like estrogen and testosterone are changing in your body, which can make you feel happy one minute and sad the next. You can manage these feelings by doing hobbies, playing sports, or talking to a parent or teacher.
In simple words: Feeling moody is a natural part of growing up because of hormones, and talking to adults or playing sports helps.

Exam Tip: Confirm that emotional fluctuations are a natural biological part of puberty caused by hormonal shifts.

Question. How can I stay healthy and confident during adolescence according to Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6?
Answer: You can stay healthy and confident by eating balanced meals with plenty of iron and calcium, staying active through sports, and keeping your body very clean. It is also important to say "no" to harmful things like alcohol, talk to trusted adults about your feelings, and get plenty of sleep every night.
In simple words: Eating good food, playing daily, keeping clean, sleeping well, and talking about your feelings will keep you healthy and confident.

Exam Tip: Summarize key lifestyle pillars such as balanced nutrition, daily physical activity, hygiene, and emotional support to answer this completely.