Communication Skills

Importance of communication
The word ‘communication’ comes from the Latin word commūnicāre, meaning ‘to share’.
Your ability to communicate clearly and share thoughts,feelings and ideas will help you in all your
relationships. For example, you can inform about something or you can also influence others through
communication.
Communication skills are needed to:
• Inform: You may be required to give facts or information to someone. For
example,communicating the timetable of an exam to a friend.
• Influence: You may be required to influence or change someone in an indirect but usually
important way. For example, negotiating with a shopkeeper to reduce the price or helping a friendto
overcome stress due to exam or any other reason.
Express feelings: Talking about your feelings is a healthy way to express them. For example,
your excitement about doing well in your exams or sharing your
feelings with your parents and friends.

Communication has three important parts:

1. Transmitting—The sender transmits the message through one medium or another.
2.Listening— The receiver listens or understands the message.
3.Feedback—The receiver conveys their understanding of the message to the sender in the form of
feedback to complete the communication cycle.
Elements of a Communication
The various elements of a communication cycle are:
Sender: the person beginning the communication.
Message: the information that the sender wants to convey.
Channel: the means by which the information is sent.
Receiver: the person to whom the message is sent.
Feedback: the receiver’s acknowledgement and response to the message

Methods of Communication
Face-to-face informal communication
There is nothing better than face-to-face communication. It helps the message to be understood clearly and
quickly. Also, since body language can be seen in this case; it adds to the effectiveness of the communication.
E-mail e-mail can be used to communicate quickly with one or many individuals in various locations. It offers
flexibility, convenience and low-cost.
Notices/Posters It is effective when the same message has to go out to a large group of people. Generally used
for where email communication may not be effective. For example, ‘Change in the lunch time for factory worker,’
or ‘XYZ Clothing will remain closed for customers on Sunday.’
Business Meetings
Communication during business meetings at an organisation are generally addressed to a group of people. It
can be related to business, management and organisational decisions.
Other Methods There can be various other methods like social networks, message, phone call for
communication, newsletter,blogs etc.

. Choosing the right method of communication depends on

• target audience
• costs
• kind/type of information
• urgency/priority
The methods of communication you choose could affect your relationship with peers, supervisors and
customers. It is, therefore, vital that you spend considerable time and consider all factors choosing the
right methods to aid you in your tasks
Multiple choice questions :
Which of the following is NOT an element of communication within the communication process cycle?
(a) Channel (b) Receiver (c) Sender (d) Time
You need to apply leave at work? Which method of communication will you use?
(a) e-mail (b) Poster (c) Newsletter (d) Blog
By which action can senders send their messages?
(a) Gestures (b) Speaking (c) Reading (d) Writing

Verbal : Oral
: Written
Verbal Communication
Verbal communication includes sounds, words, language, and speech. Speaking is one of the most effective and
commonly used way of communicating

Public Communication
This type of communication takes place when one individual addresses a large gathering. Examples
1. Election campaigns
2. Public speeches by dignitaries
Advantages of Verbal Communication
It is an easy mode of communication in which you can exchange ideas by saying what you want and get a quick
response.
Verbal communication also enables you to keep changing your interaction as per the other person’s response.
Disadvantages of Verbal Communication
Since verbal communication depends on written or spoken words, sometimes the meanings can be confusing and
difficult to understand if the right words are not used.
Mastering Verbal Communication
Most people tend to get nervous while speaking in front of a large group, or even while speaking to their
teachers, managers or supervisors. You can enhance and master your verbal communication skills

Think Before You Speak

• Think about your topic.
• Think about the most effective ways to make your listeners understand the topic.
• Write or note down whatever you plan to say.
Concise and Clear
• Speak clearly, loudly and at moderate speed.
• Be sure the information you want to share is to the point.
• Do not repeat the same sentences.
Confidence and Body Language
• Be confident.
• Maintain eye contact, stand straight and be attentive.
• Be friendly.

Non-verbal communication is the expression or exchange of information or messages without

using any spoken or written word. In other words, we send signals and messages to others, through expressions,
gestures, postures, touch, space, eye contact and para language.
Importance of Non-verbal Communication
In our day-to-day communication
• 55% communication is done using body movements, face, arms, etc.
• 38% communication is done using voice, tone, pauses, etc
. • only 7% communication is done using words.
Gestures
• Raising a hand to greet or say goodbye
• Pointing your finger at someone
Expressions
• Smiling when you are happy
• Making a sad face when you are sad
Body Language
Postures by which attitudes and feelings are communicated. Standing straight, showing interest.

Our message becomes more effective if we use the right gestures while communicating.
• If we know about non-verbal communication, we can understand our audience’s reaction and adjust our
interaction accordingly.
• Using the right gestures and postures is a sign of professionalism and etiquette.
• If verbal messages are obstructed by noise or distance, etc., we can use our hand movements to exchange
messages. For example, placing a finger on the lips indicates the need for silence while nodding the head is the
same as saying ‘yes’.

DOs:
• Make eye contact with your audience often.
• Talk purposefully with your hands or keep them to your side.
• It’s OK to look at your notes, and will help you stay on track.
• Face your audience as much as you can. Glance at your notes or visuals quickly if you need to
check your place or see what's next.
• Walk toward your audience as the speech, and the time permits.
• Smile (if you're nervous, take deep breaths from the stomach).
• Use natural emotions and facial expressions.
• Broadcast your voice naturally so everyone can hear you.
• Speak with a purpose. Express appropriate emotion for the subject.
• Be yourself.
DON’Ts:
• Don’t dart your eyes around the room.
• Don't stare at anyone, keep your eyes moving.
• Don’t flap your arms. If you don't know what to do with your arms and hands, keep them at your
side.
• Don’t only look at your notes and fail to raise your head to look at your audience.
• Don’t talk to your visual aids.
• Don’t look at your watch (but don't go over your allotted time).
• Don’t shuffle your papers.
• Don’t use the podium as a crutch.
• Don’t turn your back to part of the group for too long.
• Don’t put your hands in your pockets, or fidget with objects while speaking.
VISUAL COMMUNICATION

Visual communication proves to be effective since it involves interchanging

messages only through images or pictures and therefore, you do not need to know
any particular language for understanding it. It is simple and remains consistent
across different places
Perspectives in Communication

Perspectives are ideas, views, or fixed ways of thinking. These sometimes affect our communication.
For example, if you have a fixed idea that your teacher or father is strict, even when they are being friendly, you
may think they are scolding you even though they are polite.
In the same way, others may also have fixed IDEAS about you, which affect whatever you say to them.
Barriers to Effective Communication
Physical Barriers
Physical barrier is the environmental and natural condition that act as a barrier in communication in sending
message from sender to receiver. Not being able to see gestures, posture and general body language can make
communication less effective. For example, text messages are often less effective than face-to-face
communication. Linguistic Barriers
The inability to communicate using a language is known as language barrier to communication. Language
barriers are the most common communication barriers, which cause misunderstandings and misinterpretations
between people. For example, slang, professional jargon and regional colloquialisms can make communication
difficult.
Interpersonal Barriers
Barriers to interpersonal communication occur when the sender’s message is received differently from how it
was intended. It is also very difficult to communicate with someone who is not willing to talk or express their
feelings and views. Stage fear, lack of will to communicate, personal differences can create interpersonal barriers
to communication.
Organisational Barriers
Organisations are designed on the basis of formal hierarchical structures that follow performance standards,
rules and regulations, procedures, policies, behavioural norms, etc. All these affect the free flow of
communication in organisations and therefore, need to be suitably managed. Superior-subordinate relationships
in a formal organisational structure can be a barrier to free flow of communication. Also, sometimes due to the
stringent rules, the employees find it difficult to communicate with their peers too.
Cultural Barriers
Cultural barriers is when people of different cultures are unable to understand each other’s customs, resulting in
inconveniences and difficulties.People sometimes make stereotypical assumptions about others based on their
cultural background, this leads to difference in opinions and can be a major barrier to effective communication.

What is Effective Communication?

We now know that there are different methods of communication: non-verbal, verbal and visual. However, all
these methods can only be effective if we follow the basic principles of professional communication skills. These
can be abbreviated as 7 Cs i.e., Clear, Concise, Concrete, Correct, Coherent, Complete and Courteous

Ways to Overcome Barriers to Effective Communication

• Use simple language
• Do not form assumptions on culture, religion or geography
• Try to communicate in person as much as possible
• Use visuals
• Take help of a translator to overcome differences in language Be respectful of other’s opinions

1. Which of these is NOT a common communication barrier?

(a) Linguistic barrier (b) Interpersonal barrier
(c) Financial barrier (d) Organisational barrier
2. Which of these are ways to overcome communication barriers?
(a) Respecting each other’s differences
(b) Using a translator
(c) Not communicating at all
(d) Using your own language for comfort
Multiple choice questions
1. Which of the following is an example of oral communication?
(a) Newspapers (b) Letters (c) Phone call (d) e-mail Notes
2. What are the types of words we should use for verbal communication?
(a) Acronyms (b) Simple (c) Technical (d) Jargons
3. Why do we use e-mails?
(a) To communicate with many people at the same time.
(b) To share documents and files.
(c) To talk to each other in real-time.
(d) To keep a record of communication.

Importance of feedback
• Feedback is an important part of the communication cycle. For effective communication, it
is important that the sender receives an acknowledgement the receiver about getting the
message across. While a sender sends information, the receiver provides feedback on the
received message.
• Translated to the work environment, when you observe someone perform their work and
then, communicate with them to help improve their performances, you are giving feedback.
• Feedback can be positive or negative.
• A good feedback is always
• specific
• helpful
• kind
 A good feedback is one that is:.

• Specific: Avoid general comments. Try to include examples to clarify your statement. Offering
alternatives rather than just giving advice allows the receiver to decide what to do with your
feedback.

• Timely: Being prompt is the key, since feedback loses its impact if delayed for too long.
• Polite: While it is important to share feedback, the recipient should not feel offended by the
language of the feedback.

• Offering continuing support: Feedback sharing should be a continuous process. After offering
feedback, let recipients know you are available for support.
Importance of Feedback
Feedback is the final component and one of the most important factors in the process of
communication since it is defined as the response given by the receiver to the sender. Let us look
at certain reasons why feedback is important.
It validates effective listening: The person providing the feedback knows they have been
understood (or received) and that their feedback provides some value.
It motivates: Feedback can motivate people to build better work relationships and continue the
good work that is being appreciated.
It is always there: Every time you speak to a person, we communicate feedback so it is
impossible not to provide one.
It boosts learning: Feedback is important to remain focussed on goals, plan better and develop
improved products and services.
It improves performance: Feedback can help to form better decisions to improve and increase
performance.
Multiple choice questions
. 1. Which of these are examples of positive feedback?
(b) Excellent, your work has improved.
(c) I noticed your dedication towards the project.
(d) You are always doing it the wrong way.
(e) All of the above
2. Which of these are examples of negative feedback?
(a) I hate to tell you this but your drawing skills are poor. (b) You can surely improve yourdrawing.
© This is a good drawing but you can do better. (d)None of the above
3. Which of the following are effective components of a good feedback?
(a) Detailed and time consuming
(b) Direct and honest
(c) Specific
(d) Opinion-based
Self Management Skills
INTRODUCTION
Self-management, also referred t o a s ‘self-control,’is the ability to control one’s
emotions, thoughts and behavior effectively in different situations. This also
includes motivating oneself, and setting goals.
Basics of Self-management
To perform well at work and life in general, you must be able to manage and
improve yourself in various skillsincluding discipline and timeliness, goal setting,
problem solving, teamwork, professionalism, etc.

Following are some of the skills you must master to succeed in life:
• Self-awareness: Ask for honest feedback. Gather insights on your personality
and work-specific proficiencies. Think about your daily interactions and how
you handled situations well or could have handled them differently.
• Responsibility: Taking responsibility for your tasks is very important.
Taking ownership is the step towards self-development. For example,if you
have been assigned a task by a teacher; ensure you take complete ownership.
Even if you are unable to complete the task on time, you must report it and
then correct it.
• Time Management: Prioritise the things you have to do. Remove waste and
redundancy from work. Make a time table and follow it diligently.
• Adaptability: Stay current with best practices and read up on new
information always. Prepare yourself for new changes, so that you can
transition seamlessly.

SESSION 1: STRESS MANAGEMENT

Stress and Stress Management
What is Stress?
Stress can be defined as our emotional, mental, physical and social reaction to any perceived
demands or threats. These demands or threats are called stressors.
Stress Management
Stress is a part of everyday life. There are many instances when stress can be
helpful. A fire alarmis intended to cause stress that alerts you to avoid danger. The
stress created by a deadline to finish apaper can motivate you to finish the
assignment ontime. But when experienced in excess or for a longperiod of time,
stress has the opposite effect. It canharm our emotional and physical health, and
limit our ability to function well at home, in school and within our relationships.
Managing stress is about making a plan to be able to cope effectively with daily
pressures. The ultimate goalis to strike a balance between life, work, relationships,
relaxation and fun. By doing this, you are able to deal with daily stress triggers and
meet these challengeshead on.
Always keep in mind the ABC of stress management
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 A: Adversity or the stressful event
B: Beliefs or the way you respond to the event
C: Consequences or actions and outcomes of the event

Stress management can help you to

• have a joyful life.
• focus and complete tasks on time.
• be a happy person as you are stress free.
• be more energetic and spend quality time with yourfriends and family.

Three Steps to Manage Stress

Look out for signs of stress, such as

headache, sleeplessness, sadness, excessive
worrying, nervousness, etc. Only when we
are aware, we can manage stress.

Find out the reason for your stress. Is it

because of exams, family pressures, money
issues, not eating good food, etc.?

Use time management tools to manage your

time well. Focus on the important tasks and
get them done. Talk to someone close about
the issue. Take time to relax by exercising,
watching movie or any other activity which
can help feel relaxed.

Managing stress

Management Techniques
Here are a few simple stress management techniques.
1. Time management: Proper time management is one of the most effective stress-relieving
techniques.
2. Physical exercise and fresh air: A healthy lifestyle is essential for students. Stress is
generally lower in people who maintain a healthy routine. Doing yoga, meditation and deep
breathing exercises help in proper blood circulation and relaxes the body. Even taking a walk
or playing in the park will help you get a lot of fresh oxygen, which will help you become
more active.
3. Healthy diet: Having a healthy diet will also help you reduce stress. Eating a balanced diet,
such as Dal, Roti, vegetables and fruits will give you the strength to do your daily work
efficiently.
 4. Positivity: Focussing on negative aspects of life will add more stress. Instead, learn to look
at the good things and stay positive. For example, instead of feeling upset over a scoring less
in a test, try to maintain a positive attitude and look at ways to improve the next time.
5. Organising academic life; no delaying: By keeping class notes organised,
finishing in assignments on time, and keeping track of alldeadlines, stress can
be reduced to a great extent.
6. Sleep: We should get a good night’s sleep for at least 7 hours so that your brain and
body gets recharged to function better the next day.
7. Holidays with family and friends: Going to a relative’s place, such as your
grandparents’ houseor a new place during your summer vacations canhelp you
break from the normal routine and comeback afresh.

Ability to Work Independently

If you can become a calm and relaxed person, you willbe have the ability to work
independently, which means.
1. Becoming self-aware, self-monitoring and self-correcting.
2. Knowing what you need to do.
3. Taking the initiative rather than being told what to do.
4. Recognizing your mistakes and not blaming others.
5. Having the ability and the will to learn continuously.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to identify and manage one’s own emotions, as
well as the emotions of others. It is generally said to include at least three skills:
• Emotional awareness : the ability to identify and name one’s own emotions.
• Harnessing emotions : the ability to harnessand apply emotions to tasks like
thinking and problem solving.
• Managing emotions : the ability to regulate one’s own emotions when
necessary and help others todo the same.
Knowing how to manage one’s emotions is critical for all of us. You can manage
stress, keep your brain. active and open minded, and easily overcome failures if you
can keep your emotions in check. Emotional intelligence can also help you have better
relations with your friends and family.
Being emotionally intelligent enhances your chancesof success and a
balanced life.
Some steps to manage emotional intelligence are as given below.
• Understand your emotions: Observe your behaviour and note the
things you need to workon. You can then work on the things you
need to improve.
• Rationalise: Do not take decisions abruptly; be rational in your
thinking.
• Practise: Do meditation and yoga to keepyourself calm.
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SELF-AWARENESS — STRENGTH AND WEAKNESS ANALYSIS
Being self-aware means that you can identify your strengths and weaknesses. Self-awareness,
therefore, will help you in converting your weakness into strength and strength into an
exceptional talent. Analysing your strengths and weaknesses helps you to attain success in
life. However, strength and weakness analysis begins with knowing yourself first.
Strength and WeaknessAnalysis
Being self- aware actually means knowing your inner strengths, hidden talents, skills
and even weaknesses. Let us look at how we define strengths and weaknesses.
Examples of strengths
• I am good at creative writing.
• I am confident of speaking in front of an audience.
• I play guitar very well.

Examples of weaknesses
• I find it difficult to solve mathematics problems.
• I would like to speak English fluently.
Finding Strengths (or abilities)
• Think of anything that you are always successful at.
• Think about what others like in you.
• Take out time and think about what you do well.
Finding Weaknesses
 Point out the areas where you struggle and the things you find difficult to do.
 Look at the feedback others usually give you.
 Be open to feedback and accept your weaknesses without feeling low about it.
Take it as an area of improvement.
Difference between Interests and Abilities (Strengths)

S.N Interest Abilities

o s
1. Things that you like to do in An acquired or natural
your free time that make you capacity
happy.
2. Things you are curious about Enable you to perform
or would do even if no one a particular job or task
asked you to do it. with considerable
proficiency.
3. Things you want to learn or
would like to do in the future.

SELF-MOTIVATION
Here are some examples of self-motivation.
 Self-motivation

Different people are motivated by different thingsand t different times in their lives.
Types of Motivation

Internal Motivation: LOVE

We do things because they make us happy, healthy
and feel good. For example, when you perform on
your annual day function and you learn something
new, such as dancing, singing, etc., you feel good.

External Motivation: REWARD

We do things because they give us respect, recognition
and appreciation. For example, Suresh participated
in a 100m race and won a prize. This motivated him
to go for practice every morning.

Qualities of Self-motivated People

There are some typical behaviours seen in self-motivatedpeople which are as given
below.
 Know what they want from life
 Are focused
 Are dedicated to fulfill their dreams
 Know what is important in life.

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 Building Self-motivation
There are four steps for building self-motivation, which are as given below.

Building self-motivation

A. Multiple choice questions

1. What makes you complete work or studies without others cheering you?
(a) Self-confidence
(b) Communication
(c) Self-motivation
(d) Self-esteem

2. Which of the following are types of motivation?

(a) Internal [b]Intermediate
(b) External (c)Extensive
3. Ravi works hard to get the best student award at the end of year. What type
of motivation is this?
(a) Internal
(b) External
(c) Both internal and external
(d) Not any specific type of motivation

SESSION 4: SELF-REGULATION — GOAL SETTING

Goals and Setting SMART Goals

Goal setting is a very essential factor in your personal life. The process of goal setting
in your life helps you decide on how to live your life, where you want to be, and how
you want to be in the future.
 Goal setting : It is all about finding and listing your goals and then planning on
how to achieve them.
How to Set Goals?
We can use SMART method to set goals. SMART stands for:
• Specific : A specific and clear goal answers six questions. Who is involved in the
goal? What doI want to do? Where do I start? When do I start and finish? Which
means do I use? Why am Idoing this?
Not a specific goal: “I would learn to speak English.”
Specific goal: “I would learn to speak English fluently by joining coaching classes
after my school everyday, and in six months I will take part in the inter-school
debate competition.”
• Measureable : A measureable goal answers the questions “How much?”, “How
many?” and “Howdo I know that I have achieved results?”
Not measurable goal: “I want to be rich.”
Measurable goal: “I want to have 5 times moremoney than what I
have today in my hand at the end of this year.”
• Achievable : Breaking down big goals into smaller parts will make the goal
achievable.
Bigger Goal: “I want to become a teacher in my school.”
Breaking it into smaller goals:
 Complete higher secondary
 Complete Graduation
 Complete B.Ed.
 Apply for jobs in the teaching field
• Realistic : A realistic goal would be somethingthat we want to
achieve and can work towards.
Example of unrealistic goal: “I will read my entire year’s syllabus in
one day and get good marks.”
Realistic goal: “I spend 3 hours every day of the year after school to
revise my subjects to get good marks in the exams.”
• Time bound : A SMART goal should have a timeframe by when the goal
needs to be achieved.This encourages us to take actions to completely
fulfill the goals.
Not a time bound goal: “I want to lose 10 kg someday.”
Time bound goal: “I want to lose 10kg in the next 6 months.”

1. What is Goal Setting?

2. In SMART goals, what does ‘S’ stand for? Explain.
3. What is the best way to work on long-term goals?
SESSION 5: SELF-REGULATION — TIME MANAGEMENT

Time Management and Its Importance

Time management is the ability to plan and control how you spend the hours of your
day well and do all that you want to do. An example of good time management skills
would be when you decide to finish your homework immediately after school so you
have time to watch TV later in the evening.
Time management is the thinking skill that helps you to
• complete tasks on time.
• make a daily timetable.
• make a good guess at how long it will take you to to something.
• submit homework and assignments on time.
• not waste time during the day.

Four Steps for Effective Time Management

Organise
• We plan our day- to-day activities.
• We make a timetable that we follow.
• We keep our surroundings and study table clean and mess free.
• We put things back where they belong.
• It helps us save time!
Pritortise
• We make a to-do list that has all our activities and we rank them in the order of
importance. For example, you may rank doing homework as the
most important task.
It helps us to get the most important task done first and also to track what is pending.
Control
• We have a control over our activities and time.
• We avoid time wasters like chatting on the phone, surfing gossip sites, etc., and focus
on things that are more important.
Track
• We identify and note where we have spent our time. This will help us analyse if
we have used our time effectively or not. It also helps us to identify time-wasting
activities
Tips for Practicing the Four Steps for Effective Time Management
• Avoid delay or postponing any planned activity
• Organise your room and school desk
• Develop a ‘NO DISTURBANCE ZONE’, where you can sit and complete important
tasks
• Use waiting time productively
• Prepare a ‘To-do’ list
 • Prioritise
• Replace useless activities with productive activities
Subjective questions
• What is time management and how can you manage your time?
• How can tracking your time help you?

ICT Skills
SESSION 1: BASIC COMPUTER OPERATIONS
ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology. ICT refers to all the methods, tools,
concepts related to storing, recording and sending digital information.
Information can be recorded or stored in many ways, handwritten on paper, written
using a typewriter and so on. When information is stored and recorded on
electronic devices, it takes on a ‘digital’ form. ICT devices are tablets, smartphones
and laptops etc.
ICT skills help us to communicate, run our business and stay connected with our family and friends.
Hence, every person needs to acquire ICT skills and build them to stay updated with the latest
software and applications (apps).
Computer Hardware and Software
A computer system consists of two main parts— the hardware and the software. The
physical parts that we can see and touch are called hardware. It is the machinery
of a computer. These are the keyboard, monitor, CPU, etc.
There is another important part i.e., thesoftware. Though we cannot see it, it makes the
hardware work the way we want. The monitor is a physical device or the hardware.
When we start a program, for example, a game, it is displayed on the monitor.
This is done by the software which displays text, images and videos on the monitor.
Hardware would not be able to function without software.

Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets are also computer systems with
hardware and software. They are simply smaller in size and can be easily carried
around.

Operating System
The most important software in any computer is theOperating System (OS).
This software starts working as soon as we switch on a computer. It displays the
desktop on the monitor. Some of the most commonly used operating systems for
laptops and desktop are Ubuntu, Microsoft Windows and Mac OS.
Mobile devices also have an operating system that helps them perform their
functions. Some of the mobile operating systems are Apple iOS and Google Android
All the computer applications, such as browsers, games, Office tools, etc., are
also software programs that perform particular functions.
Starting a Computer
When a computer is switched on, it performs some basic processes/functions
before it is ready to take instructions from the user. To start a computer, press
the Power button on the CPU. This will start the operating system and display
the Ubuntu or Windows desktop.
Basic Functions performed when a computer starts
A computer automatically runs a basic program called BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) as soon
as it is switched on or the power button is pushed on.
The BIOS first does a self-test. If the self-test shows that the system is fine, the BIOS will load the
Operating System. This means that the computer’s operating system, for example, Ubuntu, is now
ready to take user inputs.
Login and Logout
We need to keep our computer locked when we are not working on it. This will
ensure that no unauthorized personcan see or make changes to our information
without taking our permission. To make sure your computer is locked, you have
login-IDs and passwords. A login and password is like a key to the lock, which
allows you to use the computer.
When you login to the computer with your login-ID and password computer
knows that you are an authorised person and allows you to work on the
applications in the computer. Once you finish working, you must log out or sign
out so thatno one else can see your work.

Shutting Down a Computer

You can shut down the computer in Ubuntu by clicking Systems button at
the top right and then click ShutDown as shown in Figure 3.6. When you click Shut
down, the Operating System will close all the applications and turn off the computer.
Using the Keyboard
A keyboard is an input device used to type text, numbers and commands into the
computer.
Function Keys
Keys labeled from F1 to F12 are function keys. You use them to perform specific
functions. Their functions differ from program to program. The function of the F1 key in
most programs is to get help on that program.Some keyboards may have fewer function
keys
[a]Control keys: Keys, s u c h a s C o n t r o l ( CTRL), SHIFT, SPACEBAR, ALT, CAPS
LOCK and TAB, are special control keys that perform specialfunctions depending on
when and where they are used.
[b] Enter key: The label on a key can be either ENTER or RETURN, depending on
the brand of computer that you are using. You use the ENTERor the RETURN key to
move the cursor to the beginning of a new line. In some programs, it is used to send
commands and to confirm a task on a computer.
[c] Punctuation keys: Punctuation keys include keys for punctuation marks, such
as colon (:), semicolon (;), question mark (?), single quotation marks (‘’), and double
quotation marks (“ ”).
[d] Navigation keys: Keys, such as the arrow keys, HOME, END, PAGE UP, and PAGE
DOWN are navigation keys. These are used to move up and down, right and left in a
document. The HOME and END keys move the cursor to the left/right end of a line
of text, respectively. The PAGE UP and PAGE DOWN keys are used to move one page
up and one page down, respectively.
[e] Command keys: Keys, such as INSERT (INS), DELETE (DEL), and BACKSPACE
are command keys. When the INSERT key is turned ON, it helps you overwrite
characters to the right of the cursor. The DELETE key and the BACKSPACE key
are used to remove typed text, characters and other objects on the right and left
side of the cursor, respectively.
[f]Windows key: Pressing this key opens the Start menu

Using a Mouse
A mouse is a small device that you can use to move, select and open items on your
computer screen. Different application will behave differently to the mouse actions.
Here we use the File Explorer to see the effect of the mouse action.
Roll Over or Hover
Some actions can be done by simply rolling overor hovering over an
item. When you bring the mouse over a file in File Explorer, it will
show the details of that file as shown in Figure 3.9.
Point and Click
As you move the mouse on your desk, a pointer moves correspondingly
on your screen. The mouse allows you to select an item on the screen. When
you click a particular file, it gets selected.
Drag and Drop
To move an item, you need to click it, and then holding the mouse button down,
movethe item to a new location. After you move the item to the new location, you
release themouse button. This is called drag and drop. When you drag a file in File
Explorer, you can pick it up from the present location anddrop it in a new location
where you release the mouse as shown in Figure 3.11.
Double-click
Double-clicking means to quickly click the left mouse button twice. When we
double- click on a file, it will open the file.

1. Which of the following functions is not performed using a mouse?

Turn on
(a) [b]Hover [c] Right click [d]Drag and Drop
2. What is the term used when you press and hold the left mouse key and move the
 mouse around?
(a) Highlighting [b] Dragging [c]Selecting [d] Moving
3. Here are the steps that take place when starting a computer. Rearrange the
steps in the correct order.
(a) Desktop appears after login
(b) Login screen appears
(c) Power on Self-Test (POST) starts
(d) Operating system starts
(e) Welcome screen appears

B. Subjective questions
1. What is the function of the ENTER key?
2. How will you prevent others from using your computer?

SESSION 2: PERfORMING BASIC fILE OPERATIONS

Information on a computer is stored in electronic files, which can be put into
separate folders.It is easier to manage the electronic files as they can be simply
copied, moved, renamed or even deleted.
Files and Folders
All information stored in a computer is kept in files. Different types of files store different types of
information. Each file is given a file name and has a file name extension that identifies the file
type. The file name and file name extension are separated by a period or a ‘dot’. For example, a
document (e.g., Neha) created using Notepad (a type of computer application to create simple text
files) will have the extension .txt. There are other types like .doc, .xls, etc. An image file usually has
an extension .jpg while a sound file usually has .mp3. A folder is a location where a group of
files can be stored.
Creating a File (Using a Text Editor in Ubuntu/Windows)

• To open a text editor, type ‘editor’ in the search dialog box. Then double-click the
text editor option. This will open a blank document.
• In Windows, you canopen Notepad and type in the text.
• To save the file click Save. In the Save As dialog box, browse to the Desktop folder,
type the name of the folder or choose already created folder and click save button.
Creating a Folder (in Ubuntu/Windows)
Folder is a location where a group of files can be stored. For example, we can create a
folder where all the files for all the students can be stored.
• To open file explorer in Ubuntu, click Files option on the left
• Choose a location where the folder has to be created for example ‘Desktop’.
• Right-click and then choose the ‘New Folder’. Type the name of the folder as ‘Demo’.

CTRL+z — undo CTRL+c — copy CTRL+y — redo CTRL+v — paste

CTRL+a — select all CTRL+p — print CTRL+x — cut CTRL+s — save
1. Which of the following is a valid file extension for Notepad file?
(a) .jpg (b) .doc (c) .text (d) .txt

1. How is a computer file system similar to our physical file system in a school?
2. What are the steps you will perform to save a text file in Ubuntu?

SESSION 3: COMPUTER CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Importance of Care and Maintenance of Computers
A computer is a delicate machine with a lot of moving electronic parts. We need to
protect it from dust and damage. If we are careless, it will not work efficiently.
Computers and mobiles are very expensive. When we take good care of them on
a regular basis, we can use them for a longer time. This will help us save money
as we do not need to buy new devices too often.

Basic Tips for Taking Care of Devices

Here are some simple ways that you can follow to takecare of your computer.
Keeping a Device Clean
Cleaning a device, such as a computer or mobile meansto keep the screen,
keyboard and mouse clean.
(i) Keyboard: First, we should not eat anything over a keyboard. Crumbs can
damage the internal parts of a keyboard. You can clean a keyboard with a soft
brush to remove crumbs and dust particles.
(ii) Screen: You can wipe the screen with a soft cloth to remove any finger marks.
(iii) Be careful with food and drinks: Avoid eating and keeping glasses of water or
cups of coffee near a computer. Any liquid spilt over an electronic device can spoil
it beyond repair.
(iv) Handle devices carefully: Handle and move your laptop carefully and avoid
dropping or bangingit against a hard surface. Even a short fall can damage the
screen or the hard disk and make the device useless. Using a cover for your
mobile and a padded case for moving your laptop protects the device from
damage.
(v) Keep the computer cool: If a computer, laptop or mobile device is
overheated, the internal parts can be damaged. The CPU has an internal fan to
keep it cool. We should make sure the fan is functioning. You can also use an
external fan. Avoid leaving a device inthe sun or in a closed car. We should be
careful when using a laptop while sitting in bed andmake sure that the fan in
not covered.
(vi) Do not overcharge your battery: Sometimes we keep a device plugged in
for charging even after it is fully charged. If we leave the device plugged in
for a long time, it can overheat the battery. This reduces the battery life.
 Always unplug the device once itis charged 100%.
(vii) Always plug in devices carefully: Any device being connected to a laptop
or computer suchas a USB drive or headphones, should be done gently. It
should not be forced into the port. If you find it difficult to plug in a device,
change thedirection and try instead of trying to force it in.
(viii) Do not run too many programs at a time: When too many programs are
running at the same time, the computer can become slow and even crash. If
a program/app isnot being used, it should be closed so that other programs
can work smoothly.
Prepare a Maintenance Schedule
We need to prepare a plan or a schedule for maintenance to keep the computer
running in perfect condition for along time. This can include:
(a) Daily Maintenance
i. Clean up your e-mail inbox
ii. Download e-mail attachments and save in
proper folders
(b) Weekly Maintenance
i. Clean your keyboard
ii. Clean your monitor
iii. Dust CPU and printer
iv. Backup your data to an external drive
(c) Monthly Maintenance
i. Transfer photographs to computer and deletefrom drive
ii. Organise photos into folders or albums
iii. Clean up ‘Download’ folder
iv. Uninstall unused programs and apps
v. Run disk-cleaner software
vi. Run full system virus scan
(d) Yearly/Annual Maintenance
(a) Clean up contacts list on social mediaaccounts
(b) Clean up e-mail contact list
(c) Update your operating system
(d) Check for expiry of anti-virus software and renew
Backup Your Data
Backing up data means to save the information presenton your computer on another
device, such as CD/DVD drives or hard disk. Data can recovered from here in case the
computer stops working completely. Computers can crash, humans can make mistakes
and natural disasters, such as floods can happen. So, it is important for companies,
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 hospitals, banks, etc., to keep their information safe so that their business can continue to
function smoothly and their customers do not face problems.

Scanning and Cleaning Viruses

Sometimes computer viruses can enter a computer from such attacks we can install
anti-virus software. This will prevent any viruses from entering and will clean any
viruses that may enter our system before theyaffect the data.
Increasing Computer Performance
If we have been using a computer for a long time wehave a lot of unnecessary files
and data, such as temporary files and images. When they use too much hard-disk space,
the performance of the computer goes down. It is important that we keep cleaning
by removing any extra files. We can use some disk cleaner software, which
help us clean up the unnecessary files.
Removing SPAM from your Computer
Sometimes we get mails from companies who are advertising a product or
trying to attract you to their website. Such mails are called SPAM. We should
never respond to SPAM anddelete it on a regular basis. It is possible to set
filters in the settings to prevent SPAM from entering our mail box.
1. What happens if you leave a device plugged in even after it is charged 100%?
(a) It can break. (b) It can stop functioning.
(c) It can over-heat. (d) Data can get corrupt.
2. How can an anti-virus protect your device?
(a) It can protect it from over-heating.
(b) It can increase its performance.
(c) It can prevent data from getting corrupt.
(d) It can backup data.
3. Which option is not required to keep a device cool?
(a) Keep the device unplugged when in use.
(b) Do not cover a laptop with a blanket.
(c) Make sure computer’s CPU fan is working.
(d) Avoid leaving the device in the sun.
4. Which of the following is essential for maintaining keyboard?
(a) Turn the keyboard upside down and shake it to remove foreign material.
(b) Blow dust and other particles with help of a blower.
(c) Use a very dilute combination of soap and water applied with a non-abrasive cloth to
 remove stains from the keycaps.
(d) All of the above
Subjective questions
A. Explain how to clean a computer on a daily basis.
B. How can you increase the performance of a computer

SESSION 4: COMPUTER SECURITy AND PRIVACy

We store a lot of information on our computers and electronic devices. For example,
we keep our photos on our mobiles, school computers store personal information
regarding every student and their parents, computers used in banks store the financial
information of their clients and computers in hospital have important information about
patients. If any of this information gets lost or leaked and falls into the wrong hands, it
can cause a lot of harm to the people.
Computer Security Deals with Protecting Computers
Computer security and privacy deals with the measuresused to prevent loss of
data.
Reasons for Security Break
Security break is leakage of information stored in a computer.
Personal information can be lost or leaked in two ways:
• We are not careful in giving out personal information over the Internet. For
example, we share our account details and password on unsecure sites.
• A person gets unauthorized access to our computer. This can happen in the
office if we leave are computer without logging out.
• Computer security and privacy is about measures we can take to restrict
access to personal data stored in a computer.

Threats to Computer
Threats are the ways in which personal information can be leaked from a
computer without our knowing.
(a) Theft: Theft means stealing of information or hardware. These maybe
of three types:
• Physical: Where a person may steal your desktop computer orlaptop.
• Identity: Where a hacker steals your personal information andassumes your
identity. Using this false identity, the hacker can gain access to your account
information or perform illegal activity.
• Software Piracy: This is stealing of software and includes using or
distributing unlicensed and unauthorised copies of a computerprogram
or software.
(b) Virus: Viruses are computer programs that can damage the data and software
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 programs or steal the information stored on a computer. Majortypes of viruses are
Worms and Trojan Horse.
• Worms: These are viruses that replicate themselves and spread to all files
once they attack a computer. This makes it very difficult
to remove them.
• Trojan Horse: A Trojan Horse disguises itself i.e., it appears to be a useful software
program but once it reaches a computer it starts behaving like a virus and destroying
data.
• Online Predator: Online predators are people who trap you into inappropriate
relationships. They may be older people posing to be your age, bullying you into doing
illegal activitiesonline and sometimes face to face.
• Internet Scams: Sometimes you may receive very attractive o f f e r s s a y i n g y ou
have wona huge money in a lottery and that you canclaim the prize by depositing a
certain amount of money. When you deposit the money using credit card or online
banking, you not only lose the deposit money but your card / account information may
be misused later.
Protecting your Data
To protect our data from theft and viruses we can take the following
measures:
(a) Use passwords to login to your computer: Use passwords that are
difficult to guess. Passwords are difficult to hack if they are a mix of small (For
example ‘a b c d’) and capital letters (For example, ‘H J E R’), numbers (For
example ‘8 7 6 5’) and special characters (For example, ’% ^ # $’). This would
prevent unauthorized people from using your computer.
(b) Install Anti-virus and Firewall: Anti-viruses and Firewall monitor the data
coming in and out of a computer and prevent and viruses from entering. Anti-
viruses can also detect and cleanviruses that may have entered a computer.
(c) Encrypt Data: This is usually done by banks and companies in which
important customer information is stored. They can encrypt their entire
hard disk using encrypting feature in
Windows (Bit locker). This would force users to usea decryption password (or
key) before starting the computer thus preventing unauthorized usage.
(d) Secure sites: Give details of your credit card or bank account only on
secure sites. See in theaddress bar of the browser. If the site address starts
with https://and a lock symbol, then it is safe to give your credit card and
bank details.

1. What should you do to ensure secure online transactions?

(a) Lock your computer (b) Give credit card or bank details only on safe websites
(c) Use anti-virus (d) Do not use pirated software
2. Which of the following trap small children into inappropriate
relations?
 (a) Online predators (b) Worms (c)Trojan Horse (d) Anti-Virus
3. What should a strong password consist of?
(a) Only letters (b) Numbers and special characters
(c) Name of a person (d) Letters, numbers and special characters

B. Subjective questions
1. Explain how Trojan Horse virus works.
2. List the various ways you can use to protect your data.

Entrepreneurial Skills
INTRODUCTION
Successful entrepreneurs have the following qualities.
• They are confident. They believe in themselves and their abilities.
• They keep trying new ideas in their business.
• They are patient.
• They are creative and think differently about business ideas.
• They take responsibility for their actions.
• They take decisions after thinking about them.
• They work hard.
• They do not give up when they face a difficulty.
SESSION 1: ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SOCIETY
Wage employed people are people who work for a person or an organization and get paid for that
work.
Self-employed people are those who start businesses to satisfy the needs of people. A self-
employed person who is always trying to make his/her business better by taking risks and trying
new ideas is an entrepreneur.
Entrepreneurs run their businesses in a market. The market has people who buy products and
services and people who sell them also. When people are buying and selling from each other, it is
helpful for everyone because everyone involved, makes money. This is how entrepreneurs help in
growing the area and society they live in.

Fulfil Customer Needs

Demand means a product or service that people want. Entrepreneurs find out what people want.
Then, they use their creativity to come up with a business idea that will meet that demand.
Use Local Materials
Entrepreneurs use the material and people available around them, to make products at low cost.
Help Society
Entrepreneurs have a positive relationship with society. They make profits through activities
that benefit society. Some entrepreneurs work towards saving the environment, some give money
to build schools and hospitals. This way, the people and area around them becomes better.
These are the roles that entrepreneurs do in a society.
Create Jobs

26
With the growth of a business, entrepreneurs look for more people to help them. They buy more
material, and from more people. The also hire more people to work for them. In this way, more
people have jobs.
Sharing of Wealth
Wealth means having enough money to live a comfortable life. As entrepreneurs grow their
business, the people working for them and in related businesses grow. They have more money to
live a better quality life.
Lower Price of Products
As more entrepreneurs sell the same product, the price of the product goes down. For example,
when more mobile phones were getting sold in India, the cost of the phone became lesser.

1. State whether the following statements are True or False

• Entrepreneurs can create jobs in the market.
• When many entrepreneurs sell mobile phones in a market, the prices of phones
increase.
• Entrepreneurs identify a need in the market and build a product or service
for it.
2. List the ways in which an entrepreneur affects a society.

SESSION 2: QUALITIES AND FUNCTIONS OF AN ENTREPRENEUR

Quality is a way in which a person acts or behaves. Some examples of qualities in people are
hardworking, nice, rude, etc.

1. Believe in themselves. They are CONFIDENT and take business decision.

2. They keep TRYING NEW IDEAS
3. They have PATIENCE because they know success will come soon
4. They think out of the box and give different solutions to the problem. They are
CREATIVE.
5. Take RESPONSIBILITY for losses also thinking that, they will be able to solve it.
6. I take DECISIONS AFTER THINKING about whether they are good or bad for my
business.
7. They are hard working. They work for hours for the betterment of their company.
8. They ‘DO NOT GIVE UP’ They are positive.
1. Ravi’s customer comes to his store and starts shouting at him. He does not get
angry. He listens to what his customer is saying. He is .
(a) hardworking
(b) confident
(c) patient
(d) prying new ideas
 2. Susheela decides to sell her company tyres in Sri Lanka. It does not sell and she
has a loss. She apologizes to the people who work for her. She says she will plan
better next time. She .
(a) takes responsibility for your mistakes
(b) thinks before making a decision
(c) does not give up (d)is creative
3. Ali has a diamond factory. He pays his employees on the first of every month.
(a) Creates a new product
(b) Manages the business
(c) Takes risk
4. Mary buys bulbs for her business from Noida. She learns that bulbs are cheaper
in Faridabad. Therefore, she decides to start buying bulbs from there.
(a) Makes decisions (b) Divides income (c)Takes risk

5. Rehnuma has two people who work for her. Every day, she spends one hour
with them to learn about what they have done that day.
(a) Creates a new product (b)Divides income (c)Manages the business

C. Subjective question
6. What do you think is th e most important function of an entrepreneur? Write
your answer giving suitable examples.

SESSION 3: MYTHS ABOUT ENTREPRENEURSHIP

In the same way, here are some misconceptions we might have about
entrepreneurship. We will also read about the actual truth.
Misconception 1
The misconception is that every business idea needs to be unique or special.
The businesses mentioned in the activity above are common businesses that we see
every day. But, each entrepreneur saw customer demand and brought anew idea into
their business. A person can take an idea that is already there in the market and do
something different with it.

Misconception 2

The misconception we have is that a person needs a lot of money to start a business.
The money used to start a business is called capital. Capital is important for starting. However,
every business does not need a lot of capital to start. In the activity, you would have seen that
every entrepreneur started with a different amount. Some had a lot of money, and some did not.
But, they are successful today.
28
Misconception 3
A misconception we have is that only a person having a big business is an entrepreneur.
No business is big or small. If a person is running a business to fulfill a customer need, they
are an entrepreneur. Most businesses start small. It becomes big with hard work and creativity.
Misconception 4
A misconception we have is that entrepreneurs are born, not made.
Q1. What do you now think — can you be an entrepreneur? If Yes, justify your answer.
Q2. Match the following:
Stor Misconception
y
Ramu owns a large (a) Every business idea needs to be unique or
clothes shop. Shamu has special.
a small store selling
handmade sarees.
Shamu does not call
himself an
entrepreneur.
Anna has a great idea for (b) Entrepreneurs are born, not made.
a website. She has `
5,000. She is waiting for `
20,000 more, so that she
can start it.
In a city of thousands of (c) A person needs to have a big business to be called
tailoring shops, Gauri an entrepreneur.
is a tailor who stitches
good quality clothes and
has a very successful
business.
SESSION 4: ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A CAREER OPTION
A career is a line of work that a person takes for life. There are two ways a person can earn a
living. They are
 self-employment
 wage employment
For example, a doctor who works for a hospital is a wage employed person. If the same doctor has
their own clinic, he or she is a self-employed person. A self-employed person running a business to
satisfy a need by trying new ideas is an entrepreneur.
A person who becomes an entrepreneur goes through a career process. This process is as follows:

ENTER SUR GROW

VIV
E
When an entrepreneur is There are many Once the business is
entrepreneurs in the
 starting, they are just entering market. The stable, an entrepreneur
entrepreneur
the market to do business. has to remain in a thinks about expanding his or
competitive market. her business.
For example, Sanjana is For example, there are For example, after five
many
starting a small grocery store other grocery stores in years, Sanjana has
the area.
in a locality. Yet, Sanjana’s store opened a chain of four
survives more grocery stores in
the competition and
does well.
She also expands the the same city. In the next
store to
two more floors. two years, she plans to
expand to tow other cities.

Green Skills

INTRODUCTION
The environment around us affects all aspects of our life; and all our day-to-day activities also
affect the environment. Those who live in cities get their food supply from surrounding villages
and in turn, are dependent on forests, grasslands, rivers, seashores, for resources, such as water,
fuel wood, fodder, etc. We use natural resources for food. Everything around us forms our
environment and our lives depend on the natural world around us.
Over the years, with economic development, there has been an increase in environmental
pollution. For example, with the introduction of high input agriculture, we can grow more food by
using fertilisers, pesticides and hybrid crops. But it has led to soil and environmental degradation.
We need to plan the use of resources in a sustainable manner so that we and our future
generations can enjoy the good environment
SESSION 1: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Are we planting more trees or are we only destroying them for our use? Are we saving the water
resources.
What is Sustainable Development?

Sustainable development is the development that satisfies the needs of the present without
compromising the capacity of future generations, guaranteeing the balance between
economic growth, care for the environment and social well-being.
Importance of Sustainable Development
Economic development is using up resources of the world so quickly that our future generations,
the young people of the world, would have serious environmental problems, much worse than
those that we are facing at present. With increasing population and income, the consumption of
goods is increasing day by day. This has led to increase in production and utilisation of natural
resources, which are required for producing goods. Society must thus change its development
strategy to a new form where development will not destroy the environment. This form of
sustainable development can only be brought about if each individual practices a sustainable
lifestyle. Since most of the natural resources are scarce, therefore, careful utilisation of resource is
30
necessary.
Sustainable development is defined as ‘development that meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’ (World
Commission on Environment and Development, 1987). For example, sustainable agriculture
consists of environment friendly methods of farming that allow the production of agricultural
crops or livestock without damage to human or natural systems. It also involves preventing the
use of chemicals so as to avoid adverse effects to soil, water and biodiversity.

Problems Related to Sustainable Development

Three major problems related to sustainable development are:
Food: The amount of rich, fertile land needed to grow crops, such as wheat, rice, etc., is becoming
less as we are using up more and more land for other purposes. Soil nutrients are also getting
depleted and lots of chemicals are spoiling the soil due to use of chemical fertilisers.
Water: We use fresh water from rivers and ponds for drinking and cleaning but dump garbage
into them. The rivers and ponds are getting polluted. This way after several years, we will have no
clean water for our use.
Fuel: We are using a lot of wood from trees as fuels and for construction of homes and furniture.
As more and more trees are being cut, it is affecting the climate of the place. Extreme weather
conditions, such as floods, extreme cold or heat, are seen in many places, which affect the people
living there.

An environment friendly way for production of power is using solar energy or energy from the
sun which is unlimited. One major example of large scale production of solar power is seen in
Charanka — Gujarat Solar Park. This barren land with wild vegetation has a mega solar power
plant of 600 MW. This has reduced the dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels in Gujarat. The
people of Charanka have benefited as they have a good source of income and this will also help
future generations in the next 40–50 years to come Sustainable development includes
 reducing excessive use of resources and enhancing resource conservation;
 recycling and reuse of waste materials;
 scientific management of renewable resources,
 especially bio-resources;
 planting more trees;
 green grassy patches and trees to be interspersed between concrete buildings;
 using more environment friendly material or biodegradable material and use of
technologies, which are environmental friendly and based on efficient use of resources

Sustainable Development Goals

  The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a universal call of action to end poverty,
protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. The Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) were launched at the United Nations Sustainable Development
Summit in New York in September 2015, forming the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development. It has set targets that the countries have to should work towards and
achieve by 2030.

 The 17 SDGs have been made with the aim to take care of important issues facing
businesses, governments and society.
Sustainable Development Initiatives
When plastics were banned by the municipal corporation of Mangalore, an innovator and
entrepreneur Mr. Avasth Hedge found an eco-friendly alternative. He made a 100 per cent bio-
degradable bag which can dissolve in hot water and decompose in natural environment. This is
now being used in many countries and is going to help the environment.
Another innovative idea was to stop the use of plastics spoons, forks, etc. Narayana Peesapaty
made edible cutlery made out of a grain — these spoons can be eaten and even if they are not
eaten they will easily decompose in the soil enriching it. https://www.ibef. org/Innovations-from-
India.aspx

Sustainable Processes
Some practices, such as organic farming, vermi-composting and rainwater harvesting are being
used to help preserve the environment.
Organic farming is where farmers do not use chemical pesticides and fertilisers to increase their
production. They use organic and natural fertilisers, such as cow dung to help in growing crops.
This helps in better quality chemical free crops while at the same time maintaining the soil quality
for future use. This is a true example of sustainable developmen where we are not only using the
earth resources but are also preserving it for our future generations.

Multiple choice questions

Read the questions carefully and circle the letter (a), (b), (c) or (d) that best answers the question.
1. How many sustainable development goals are given by the United Nations?
(a) 18 (b) 17 (c) 15 (d) 20
2. Choose the option which defines sustainable development.
(a) Taking care of future generations (b) Taking care of only
32
ourselves
(c) Taking care of ourselves and the future generations (d) Well-being of all
3. Which organisation has made the Sustainable Development Goals.
(a) United Nations (b) League of Nations
(c) UNICEF (d) World Health Organisation
B. Subjective questions
1. What is the meaning of sustainable development?
2. Why do you think the United Nations has made the 17 Sustainable Development Goals?

SESSION 2: OUR ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

If we continue to use fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas, very soon we will run out of
these natural resources.We use so many resources from nature but whatdo we give back to
nature? Factories give out smoke that pollutes the air. Garbage collected from
homes is dumped into landfills. Untreated garbage can leadto disease and
unhealthy environment. Sewage from the cities is dumped into the seas and lakes
makingit unsafe for marine life. This shows that though weare using the natural
resources, we are doing nothing to return or give back to nature. Natural resources
are limited and with time they will get over and if we do notdo anything about it, our
future generations will not be able to survive.
One initiative was taken by Ministry of Railways in Varanasi and Raibareilly where they
introduced clay pots ‘Kulhads’ to replace plastic and paper cups and to bring back taste of
tradition. Three major advantages gained by using ‘Kulhads’ are to
 reduce cutting of tree for making paper cups.
 job creation for potters, which contributes to economy.
 reduce plastic waste.

Our Role towards Sustainable Development

Here are some basic ways in which people can help towards Sustainable Development Goals.
Quality Education
Education is the most important factors for sustainable
development. Children who have gone to school will be
able to do jobs so that they can take care of themselves and
their families. Education helps us become aware of our
role as a responsible citizen. We should
1. use the facilities present in our areas.
2. take our friends to school.
3. help friends study.
4. stop friends from dropping out of school.
Clean Water and Sanitation
We must make efforts to make India free of open defecation by building
toilets and creating awareness towards sanitation. Industrial pollution is
polluting our water resources, which in near future will cause scarcity of
clean drinking and usable water. We must take measurable steps by
promoting awareness to keep water sources clean

Affordable and Clean Energy

Using solar power i.e., power generated using the sun does not cause pollution as it
does not require burning of non-renewable fuels, such as coal. We are making efforts
to increase the solar power generation so that our electricity needs are met and at the
same time we do not pollute the environment or use up natural resources. Use of
biogas is also an eco-friendly alternative to natural gas.

Decent Work and Economic Growth

We can
(a) study and find good jobs to take care of ourselves
and our families.
(b) work hard and contribute to society.
(c) learn and develop skills so that we get add value
in our community.

Reduced Inequalities
To reduce inequalities we can
1. be helpful to one another.
2. be friendly with everyone.
3. include everyone while working or playing.
4. help others by including everyone whether they are small or big, girl or boy,
belong to any class or caste.
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Creating Sustainable Cities
1. Save energy by switching off lights and fans when
not in use.
2. Use natural light as much as possible.
3. Use energy efficient lights (LED bulbs) and appliances.

Responsible Consumers and Producers

We can become responsible about our own environment by

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 1. Reusing paper, glass, plastic, water, etc.
2. Taking cloth bags to market carrying fruits and vegetables.
3. Donate things we do not use such as clothes, books, furniture, food, etc.
4. Buy and eat seasonal fruits and vegetables from local growers.
5. Repair leaking taps and pipes to avoid wasting water.
6. Sort and treat garbage before disposing.
Protect Life Below Water
Tons of plastic is found in the seas, which is killing marine life. Protecting marine life,
saving our oceans from pollution is necessary to preserve the marine life.
Protect Life on Land
Cutting of trees is leading to soil erosion and making land dry and unusable for
cultivation. Planting more tree to replace the ones that we have cut is an important
step towards sustainable development.

A. Multiple choice questions

1. Which of the following sources of energy is from a renewable source?
(a) Solar energy (b) Wood (c) Coals (d) Petrol
2. Choose the option which is not a sustainable development goal according to
United Nations.
(a) Clean Water and Sanitation (b) Gender Equality
(c) Population (d) Reduced Inequalities

B. Subjective questions
1. List some ways in which we can use resources sensibly.
2. Explain the importance of education towards sustainable development.