Environment and Ecosystem

Overview

Environment and Ecosystem is a foundational topic in the Science section of WB TET Paper II, bridging biology with environmental awareness. This topic tests your understanding of how living organisms interact with each other and their physical surroundings — a concept central to the upper-primary science curriculum (Classes 6–8).

For the exam, expect questions on ecosystem components, energy flow through food chains and food webs, types of biodiversity, and causes and effects of pollution. The topic also connects with pedagogy questions about environmental awareness and sustainable development. Mastering this area requires understanding both the scientific concepts and their real-world applications, particularly in the context of West Bengal's environment.

Questions typically range from straightforward definitions to application-based problems involving food chain analysis or pollution control measures. About 3–5 questions can be expected from this sub-topic.

Key Concepts

• **Environment** comprises all biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors that surround and influence an organism — air, water, soil, temperature, plants, animals and microorganisms.

• **Ecosystem** is a functional unit where living organisms interact with each other and their physical environment; it can be as small as a pond or as large as a forest.