Things We Make and Do

Overview

"Things We Make and Do" is a core theme in Environmental Studies (EVS) for Classes III-V that connects children's everyday experiences with broader concepts of work, materials, crafts, and environmental responsibility. This topic bridges the child's immediate surroundings with the wider community, helping them appreciate local occupations, traditional crafts, and the importance of sustainable practices like recycling and waste management.

For PSTET Paper I, this theme tests your understanding of how children learn through observation and activity about the world of work around them. Questions typically focus on local crafts of Punjab, common occupations, the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), and waste segregation. The pedagogical angle emphasises activity-based and experiential learning—expect questions on how to teach these concepts through hands-on projects rather than rote memorisation.

Mastering this topic requires connecting factual content (types of crafts, waste categories) with child-centred pedagogy. Remember that EVS integrates science and social science, so questions may link materials science (what things are made of) with social aspects (who makes them, why it matters).

Key Concepts

• **Local crafts reflect regional identity**: Punjab is known for Phulkari embroidery, Patiala jutti making, woodwork, pottery, and handloom weaving. These crafts use locally available materials and represent cultural heritage.

• **Occupations are interdependent**: The baker needs the farmer's wheat, the potter needs the farmer's storage pots—children should understand how different workers depend on each other in a community.

• **Materials determine craft techniques**: Crafts use natural materials (wood, clay, cotton, wool) or processed materials (metal, glass). The choice of material affects the method of making and the product's properties.

• **The 3R hierarchy matters**: Reduce comes first (use less), then Reuse (use again), then Recycle (convert into new material). This order reflects environmental priority.

• **Waste segregation is the foundation of waste management**: Biodegradable (wet/kitchen waste) and non-biodegradable (dry/plastic/metal) waste must be separated at source for effective disposal or recycling.

• **Traditional practices often embody sustainability**: Many old crafts and household practices were inherently eco-friendly—using natural dyes, repairing rather than discarding, composting kitchen waste.

• **Work has dignity**: EVS emphasises that all occupations—whether farmer, cobbler, weaver, or sanitation worker—deserve respect and contribute to society.