Introduction — What is Science?

Science is a way of learning about the world around us. It helps us understand how things work by observing, asking questions, and testing ideas. In this chapter, students learn the basic idea that science is not just a collection of facts — it is a method: observe carefully, ask good questions, make simple experiments, and use results to form ideas. Scientists use evidence to support ideas and change them if new evidence appears.

Why Study Science?

Science is important because it explains many things we see every day — why plants grow, how we breathe, why rain falls, and how tools and machines work. Studying science helps students develop curiosity and a habit of asking questions. It trains the mind to think clearly and solve problems step-by-step. When children learn to think scientifically they become better at making decisions and understanding the world.

Scientific Thinking & the Scientific Method (Simple Steps)

1. Observe: Notice something interesting or unexpected around you.
2. Ask Questions: Ask why or how it happens.
3. Make a Guess (Hypothesis): Suggest a possible answer that can be tested.
4. Plan Experiments: Decide how to test the guess using simple tools or measurements.
5. Collect Data: Record what happens carefully.
6. Analyse: Look at the results to see if the guess was correct.
7. Conclude: Decide what the experiment shows and write it down.

These steps are introduced in an age-appropriate way in Class 6: students are encouraged to observe and record and to think about why things happen the way they do.

Key Terms — Short Glossary

• Observation: Carefully noticing and recording facts or events.
• Hypothesis: A simple explanation that can be tested.
• Experiment: A planned activity to test a hypothesis.
• Evidence: Information gathered from observations and experiments.
• Conclusion: A logical answer based on the evidence.

Everyday Examples — Where Science Helps

Use simple examples so students relate: cooking (changes in food with heat), breathing (role of lungs), cleaning (why soap removes dirt), plants and sunlight (how plants make food), and using a torch (electricity and circuits introduced later). Explain how these are all linked to observing and asking questions.

Simple Classroom Activities & Mini Experiments

Explain how to note observations in a table and discuss possible reasons. This activity teaches careful observation and recording.

This introduces classification — an important scientific skill.

How to Take Notes — Revision Tips

• Write a one-line definition of science in your own words.
• List 5 everyday things you can explain using science.
• Practice two mini-experiments and note observations in a table.
• Memorise key terms from the glossary and write short definitions.
• Make flashcards for important vocabulary and concepts.

CBSE Board Examination — What to Expect (Systematic Order)

For Class 6 level assessments and CBSE-style examinations, students are expected to demonstrate understanding of fundamental ideas rather than memorise text. Typical question types include:

1. Very Short Answer (1–2 marks): Definitions or one-line explanations (e.g., What is an observation?).
2. Short Answer (2–3 marks): Simple descriptions of activities or explanations with 2–3 sentences (e.g., Describe a classroom activity that shows ‘sorting’).
3. Long Answer (3–5 marks): Slightly longer explanation with steps, diagram or examples (e.g., Explain why scientific observation is important with an example).
4. Practical/Activity Based Questions: Report-style answers where students record an activity, observations and a conclusion.

Focus on answering in simple, clear language with one example or short diagram where needed. Use bullet points for clarity in answers.

Practice Questions (With Hints)

Sample Answers — Model Responses

• Q1 Answer: Science is a way of learning about nature by observing and testing ideas. Example: Using a magnifying glass to see tiny parts of a leaf.
• Q2 Answer: Observe, Make a guess (hypothesis), Test by doing an experiment and record results.
• Q3 Answer: Recording observations gives evidence. It helps us check if our ideas are right and share results with others.

Important Points to Remember

• Science begins with curiosity — asking questions is the first step.
• Observations are facts; interpretations come later.
• Simple experiments help test ideas and provide evidence.
• Recording results carefully makes conclusions reliable.
• These study materials are designed strictly as per the NCERT syllabus, making them ideal for CBSE Class 6 board exams standard.

Useful Study Routine (Weekly Plan)

1. Day 1: Read chapter and note key terms.
2. Day 2: Do the two mini-activities and record observations.
3. Day 3: Revise glossary and write short answers.
4. Day 4: Attempt practice questions and check model answers.
5. Day 5: Quick revision and make flashcards for important points.