Plants and Animals Around Us

Overview

This topic forms a foundational component of Environmental Studies for JTET Paper I, connecting young learners to the living world around them. Questions typically test your understanding of plant and animal classification, their habitats, adaptations, interdependence, and conservation practices—with special emphasis on the biodiversity of Jharkhand.

For the exam, you must know basic plant parts and their functions, animal classification based on food habits and habitats, the concept of ecosystems, and why conservation matters. Expect questions linking local flora and fauna (sal forests, elephants, peacocks) to broader ecological concepts. The pedagogical angle focuses on how teachers can use the immediate environment to make learning meaningful for children.

Mastering this topic requires understanding life processes, ecological relationships, and human responsibility toward nature—themes that recur across EVS questions.

Key Concepts

• **Plant parts and functions**: Roots absorb water and anchor the plant; stems transport water and nutrients; leaves prepare food through photosynthesis; flowers enable reproduction; fruits protect seeds.

• **Types of plants**: Herbs (soft stems, short—tulsi, wheat), shrubs (woody stems, medium height—rose, hibiscus), trees (tall, single woody trunk—sal, mahua, mango), climbers (need support—money plant, grapevine), creepers (spread on ground—pumpkin, watermelon).