By Subhash Kumar | Science Educator | UREducator
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Conservation of Plants and Animals
Complete Teaching Resource for CBSE Class 8 Science Chapter 7
Class: VIII
Subject: Science
Chapter: 7
Duration: 4 Hours
What Students Will Achieve
Knowledge
- Define biodiversity and explain its importance
- Identify causes and consequences of deforestation
- Differentiate between flora and fauna
- Describe protected areas (sanctuaries, national parks, biosphere reserves)
Understanding
- Analyze how deforestation impacts ecosystems
- Explain the concept of endemic and endangered species
- Understand the purpose of Red Data Book
- Evaluate conservation strategies
Skills
- Conduct local biodiversity surveys
- Design conservation awareness campaigns
- Participate in tree plantation drives
- Analyze case studies of conservation success
Prior Knowledge Assessment
Starter Questions:
- Name 3 animals that have become extinct in India
- What happens to rainfall when forests are cut down?
- How is a wildlife sanctuary different from a zoo?
Causes and Consequences of Deforestation
Major Causes of Deforestation
Agricultural Expansion
- Clearing land for crops
- Creating pastures for livestock
- Palm oil plantations
Urbanization
- Building cities and infrastructure
- Road construction
- Industrial development
Natural Causes
- Forest fires
- Droughts
- Pests and diseases
Consequences of Deforestation
| Impact Area | Short-term Effects | Long-term Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Climate | Increased local temperatures | Global warming, disrupted rainfall patterns |
| Soil | Increased erosion | Desertification, loss of fertility |
| Wildlife | Habitat loss | Species extinction, biodiversity loss |
Project: Deforestation Simulation
Objective: Demonstrate impacts of tree loss on ecosystems
- Create a model forest with different plant layers
- Gradually "cut down" trees in the model
- Record changes in soil stability, water retention, etc.
- Compare with control model of intact forest
Flora, Fauna and Endemic Species
Key Concepts
Flora
Plant life of a particular region
- Example: Teak, sal, mango in Pachmarhi
- Provides food and habitat
- Maintains oxygen-carbon dioxide balance
Fauna
Animal life of a particular region
- Example: Tiger, bison, giant squirrel
- Maintains ecological balance
- Important for food chains
Endemic Species
Found only in specific locations
- Example: Nilgiri tahr in Western Ghats
- Highly vulnerable to extinction
- Important for local ecosystems
Activity: Local Biodiversity Survey
Objective: Document flora and fauna in your area
- Identify and list 10 plants (flora) in your locality
- Identify and list 10 animals (fauna) in your locality
- Research if any are endemic to your region
- Create a biodiversity map of your area
Protected Areas and Strategies
Types of Protected Areas
| Type | Purpose | Human Activity | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Sanctuary | Protect animal species | Limited (research, tourism) | Pachmarhi Sanctuary |
| National Park | Protect ecosystems | Highly restricted | Satpura National Park |
| Biosphere Reserve | Conserve biodiversity + sustainable development | Controlled (tribal activities allowed) | Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve |
Conservation Strategies
Reforestation
- Planting native tree species
- Community tree plantation drives
- School adoption of local parks
Reduce-Reuse-Recycle
- Paper conservation (17 trees per tonne)
- Using both sides of paper
- Recycling notebooks
Red Data Book
- International record of endangered species
- Helps prioritize conservation
- Indian version maintained by government
Project: Create a Conservation Campaign
Objective: Raise awareness about local conservation issues
- Identify a local conservation challenge
- Research solutions and best practices
- Design posters, slogans, or social media content
- Present to school or community
Evaluation Strategies
Formative Assessments
- Protected areas matching quiz
- Deforestation impact diagrams
- Endemic species identification
- Classroom participation in activities
Summative Assessments
- Chapter test (MCQs + short answer)
- Conservation project presentation
- Case study analysis of Project Tiger
- Reforestation plan for local area
Extended Learning: Visit a Protected Area
Objective: Apply classroom knowledge to real-world conservation
- Visit a local wildlife sanctuary or park
- Interview a forest ranger or guide
- Document conservation efforts observed
- Create a photo journal of the visit
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a national park and wildlife sanctuary?
Key differences:
- National Parks: Strict protection, no human activity allowed, larger areas protecting complete ecosystems
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: Focus on protecting specific species, some human activities permitted (like grazing)
How does deforestation lead to both droughts and floods?
Deforestation causes:
- Droughts: Reduced transpiration decreases rainfall, higher temperatures increase evaporation
- Floods: Loss of tree roots reduces soil's water absorption capacity, leading to runoff
