Long Answer Type Questions – Topic-wise

1. Adolescence and PubertyBasic Concepts

Definition, age range and importance of this stage.

• Q1. Define adolescence. Why is it considered a transition period between childhood and adulthood?

  Ans. Adolescence is the period of life between childhood and adulthood when a child gradually develops into an adult. It usually starts around the age of 11 years and continues up to 18–19 years.
  
  It is called a transition period because:

  • The body shows rapid physical changes such as increase in height, change in body shape and development of secondary sexual characters.
  • The mind also develops – adolescents start thinking more deeply, become curious, and are able to understand abstract ideas.
  • Emotional and social changes occur; they want independence, form stronger friendships and begin to take more responsibilities.
  Thus adolescence connects a dependent child with an independent adult and prepares the individual to take on adult roles in life.

• Q2. What is puberty? State the usual age at which puberty occurs in boys and girls.

  Ans. Puberty is the stage during adolescence when the body becomes sexually mature and capable of reproduction. It is marked by the maturation of reproductive organs and appearance of secondary sexual characters.
  
  The age of onset of puberty is not the same for every child but there are general trends:

  • In girls, puberty usually occurs between 10–12 years of age.
  • In boys, puberty generally occurs slightly later, between 12–14 years.
  These ages may shift a little depending on factors such as health, nutrition, heredity and environment. Once puberty begins, a number of bodily and emotional changes start appearing in both boys and girls.

• Q3. Explain why the age of puberty is not the same for all individuals. Mention any three factors that influence it.

  Ans. The age of puberty varies from person to person because human growth and development are influenced by many internal and external factors.
  
  Three important factors are:

  • Nutrition: Children who get a balanced diet with enough proteins, vitamins and minerals usually grow well and may attain puberty earlier than undernourished children. Poor diet can delay puberty.
  • General health: Frequent illness, long-term diseases or weakness can slow down growth, whereas good health helps the body to reach puberty at a normal age.
  • Heredity and environment: Children often resemble their parents in growth patterns. Climate and living conditions also affect the timing of puberty.
  Due to these reasons, some adolescents may show changes of puberty earlier while others may show them a little later, which is completely normal.

• Q4. “Adolescence is a period of rapid growth and development.” Justify this statement with suitable points.

  Ans. Adolescence is rightly called a period of rapid growth and development because:

  • Physical growth: There is a growth spurt during which height and weight increase quickly. Limbs grow rapidly and the body size changes noticeably in a short time.
  • Development of reproductive organs: Testes in boys and ovaries in girls mature and start producing gametes and sex hormones. This makes the body capable of reproduction.
  • Change in body shape: In girls, hips broaden and breasts develop, while in boys, shoulders broaden and muscles develop. These changes give typical adult male and female shapes.
  • Mental and emotional development: Thinking becomes more logical and imaginative. Adolescents become more aware of themselves and the world around them, and experience new emotions.
  All these changes together show that adolescence is a very dynamic and important stage in human life.

2. Physical Changes at PubertyBody Growth & Appearance

Growth spurt, body shape, voice and gland activity.

• Q5. Describe the main physical changes that occur in boys and girls during puberty.

  Ans. Both boys and girls undergo several physical changes during puberty. The main changes are:

  • Increase in height: There is a rapid increase in height due to quick growth of bones, especially in legs and arms. This is called a growth spurt.
  • Change in body shape: In boys, shoulders broaden and muscles develop. In girls, hips broaden and the body becomes more rounded to prepare for childbearing.
  • Development of reproductive organs: In boys, testes and penis grow larger and begin to produce sperms. In girls, ovaries enlarge, start releasing mature eggs and the uterus and vagina increase in size.
  • Appearance of secondary sexual characters: Boys grow facial hair (moustache and beard), chest hair and hair under the arms and in the pubic region. Girls develop breasts and also grow hair in the armpits and pubic region.
  • Change in voice and skin: Boys’ voices become deeper due to enlargement of larynx, while sweat and oil glands in the skin become more active in both sexes, often causing acne.
  These changes indicate that the body is moving towards adulthood and sexual maturity.

• Q6. What is a growth spurt? How does it affect the final height of a person?

  Ans. A growth spurt is a period of very rapid growth in height and weight that occurs during puberty. During this time, the long bones of the arms and legs grow quickly, making adolescents look much taller within a few years.
  
  This growth spurt affects the final height in the following ways:

  • Most of the total increase in height happens during this period. If a child is well-nourished and healthy, he or she can reach the maximum potential height decided by heredity.
  • The growth does not stop exactly at 13–14 years; it continues till about 18 years in girls and 19–20 years in boys, though the rate slows down later.
  • After the growth plates at the ends of long bones fuse, no further increase in height is possible, even if the person eats very well.
  Therefore, the period of adolescence is very important for proper nutrition and health so that the child reaches an appropriate adult height.

• Q7. Explain how and why the voice of boys changes during puberty. Why does it sometimes “crack”?

  Ans. The voice of boys changes mainly because of the growth of the larynx or voice box. At puberty, the larynx in boys enlarges more than in girls and the vocal cords become longer and thicker.
  
  Due to this:

  • The voice becomes deep and hoarse, which is called a male voice.
  • The front part of the enlarged larynx sticks out in the throat and is called Adam’s apple.
  During the period when the larynx is growing quickly, the control over the vocal cords is not perfect, so the voice may suddenly change from high pitched to low pitched and back again. This causes the “cracking” or breaking of voice that many boys experience. After some time, the growth stops, the muscles gain control and the voice becomes steady and clear. This change is a normal part of growing up and should not be a cause of worry or shame.

• Q8. Why do adolescents need to take extra care of personal hygiene? Explain with reference to sweat and sebaceous glands.

  Ans. During adolescence, the sweat glands and sebaceous (oil) glands present in the skin become very active under the influence of hormones. As a result:

  • Adolescents sweat more, especially in hot weather and during physical activity.
  • Oil glands secrete more sebum, making the skin oily, particularly on the face, chest and back.
  Sweat itself is almost odourless, but if it stays on the body, bacteria grow and break it down, producing bad smell. Excess oil and dead skin cells can block pores, leading to pimples and acne.
  
  Therefore adolescents must:
  • Take a bath daily and after games, using mild soap to remove sweat and oil.
  • Wear clean clothes and undergarments to avoid bacterial and fungal infections.
  • Keep the scalp and hair clean to prevent dandruff and scalp infections.
  Good personal hygiene not only prevents diseases but also increases confidence and comfort during this sensitive stage of life.

3. Hormones and Endocrine GlandsHormonal Control

Role of hormones, pituitary, thyroid, pancreas, adrenal and sex hormones.

• Q9. What are hormones? Describe briefly the characteristics of endocrine glands.

  Ans. Hormones are chemical messengers secreted by special glands called endocrine glands. They are released directly into the blood and regulate various body processes such as growth, metabolism and reproduction.
  
  Important characteristics of endocrine glands are:

  • They are ductless glands; they do not have ducts like salivary or sweat glands. Their secretions are poured directly into the bloodstream.
  • They secrete hormones in very small amounts, but these hormones have powerful effects on particular target organs.
  • Different endocrine glands secrete different hormones, for example, thyroid secretes thyroxine, pancreas secretes insulin, testes secrete testosterone and ovaries secrete oestrogen.
  • Their proper functioning is crucial; too much or too little secretion can lead to disorders such as dwarfism, diabetes or thyroid problems.
  Thus hormones and endocrine glands together form a control and coordination system that keeps the body working properly.

• Q10. Why is the pituitary gland called the “master gland”? Explain its role in puberty.

  Ans. The pituitary gland is called the master gland because it secretes hormones that control the activity of many other endocrine glands such as thyroid gland, adrenal glands, testes and ovaries. By regulating these glands, the pituitary indirectly controls growth, metabolism and reproduction.
  
  In relation to puberty:

  • The pituitary secretes growth hormone which stimulates overall body growth, especially the growth of bones, leading to the growth spurt during adolescence.
  • It secretes hormones that signal the testes in boys to produce the male sex hormone testosterone.
  • It also secretes hormones that signal the ovaries in girls to produce the female sex hormone oestrogen.
  These sex hormones are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characters and the maturation of reproductive organs. Thus, by starting the secretion of these hormones at the right age, the pituitary gland plays a central role in initiating puberty.

• Q11. Describe the functions of thyroid gland, pancreas and adrenal glands in the human body.

  Ans. Three important endocrine glands and their functions are:

  • Thyroid gland: Located in the neck, it secretes the hormone thyroxine. This hormone controls the body’s metabolism, i.e., the rate at which food is converted into energy. It also influences growth and development. Deficiency of thyroxine can cause stunted growth and goitre, while excess can make a person restless and weak.
  • Pancreas: The pancreas has both exocrine and endocrine functions. As an endocrine gland, it secretes the hormone insulin, which controls the level of sugar in the blood. Lack of insulin causes diabetes, a disease in which the blood sugar level becomes too high.
  • Adrenal glands: These are present on top of each kidney. They secrete hormones like adrenaline, which help the body to face stress or emergency situations. Adrenaline increases heartbeat, blood pressure and breathing rate and prepares the body for “fight or flight”.
  Together, these glands help maintain body balance and enable the body to respond properly to changing conditions.

• Q12. Explain the role of sex hormones testosterone and oestrogen in the development of secondary sexual characters.

  Ans. The main sex hormones are testosterone in males and oestrogen in females. They are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characters at puberty.
  
  Testosterone is produced by the testes in boys. It:

  • Stimulates the growth of facial hair like moustache and beard.
  • Causes deepening of voice due to enlargement of larynx.
  • Promotes broadening of shoulders and development of muscles.
  • Helps in the production and maturation of sperms in the testes.
  Oestrogen is produced by the ovaries in girls. It:
  • Results in the development of breasts.
  • Causes broadening of hips and deposition of fat in certain body parts, giving the female body its typical shape.
  • Regulates the menstrual cycle and supports the development of female reproductive organs.
  Both these hormones start acting when they are stimulated by pituitary hormones. Their coordinated action ensures normal sexual development in boys and girls.

4. Reproductive Phase and MenstruationHuman Reproduction

Reproductive phase in boys and girls and menstrual cycle.

• Q13. What is meant by the reproductive phase of life? How is it different in males and females?

  Ans. The reproductive phase of life is the period during which the human body is capable of producing offspring. In this phase the reproductive organs are fully functional and gametes are produced regularly.
  
  The reproductive phase is different in males and females:

  • In females: It begins with the onset of menstruation (menarche) around 10–12 years and ends with menopause around 45–50 years. During this period, ovaries release one mature ovum approximately every month and the uterus prepares for possible pregnancy.
  • In males: It begins when the testes start producing sperms at puberty (around 12–14 years). In men, sperm production may continue for a much longer time, often up to old age. There is no fixed age for the end of the reproductive phase in males.
  Thus, the reproductive span is clearly limited in women but is relatively longer and less sharply defined in men.

• Q14. Describe the menstrual cycle in human females in brief. Why is it important?

  Ans. The menstrual cycle is a series of changes that occur every month in the female reproductive system. It typically lasts for about 28–30 days and has the following main events:

  • Each month, one ovary releases a mature egg or ovum.
  • At the same time, the inner lining of the uterus becomes thick, soft and richly supplied with blood vessels to receive a fertilised egg.
  • If the ovum is not fertilised, the thickened uterine lining breaks down and along with blood and tissue, is released through the vagina. This is called menstruation and lasts for 3–5 days.
  • After menstruation, the uterine lining starts building up again and the cycle repeats.
  The menstrual cycle is important because it prepares the uterus each month for possible pregnancy and, at the same time, indicates that the girl’s reproductive system is functioning normally.

• Q15. What precautions should a girl take during menstruation to maintain good health and hygiene?

  Ans. During menstruation, it is very important for a girl to maintain hygiene and good health because the chances of infection are higher. She should:

  • Use clean sanitary pads or cloths and change them regularly, at least every 4–6 hours, to prevent microbial growth.
  • Dispose used sanitary materials properly so that they do not spread infection.
  • Wash the genital area with clean water and keep it dry to avoid irritation and infection.
  • Eat a nutritious diet and drink sufficient water to maintain energy and replace the small loss of blood.
  • Avoid myths and superstitions like not taking a bath or not going to school; instead, she should continue her routine life as normal as possible.
  Following these precautions ensures comfort, prevents reproductive tract infections and helps the girl stay healthy and confident.

• Q16. Explain briefly what happens in the uterus (i) when fertilisation occurs and (ii) when fertilisation does not occur.

  Ans. The uterus plays a central role in the female reproductive system.
  
  (i) When fertilisation occurs:

  • The fertilised egg or zygote forms in the oviduct and starts dividing to form an embryo.
  • The embryo moves to the uterus and gets attached to the thick, soft uterine lining. This process is called implantation.
  • From this stage, the embryo develops further into a foetus within the protective environment of the uterus.
  • The lining of the uterus provides nourishment and protection to the growing baby through the placenta.
  (ii) When fertilisation does not occur:
  • The ovum released by the ovary remains unfertilised and finally dies.
  • The thick uterine lining is no longer needed and it breaks down.
  • The lining along with blood and mucus flows out through the vagina as menstrual blood. This is called menstruation.
  Thus, the uterine changes are closely linked to fertilisation and the menstrual cycle.

5. Sex Determination and Gender EqualityChromosomes & Values

Chromosomes, XX–XY system and social message.

• Q17. Explain how sex of a child is determined in humans using the XX–XY chromosome system.

  Ans. In humans, the sex of a child is determined by the type of sex chromosomes present in the fertilised egg or zygote.
  
  Chromosome patterns:

  • All eggs produced by the mother carry one X chromosome, so they are of only one type (X).
  • The father produces two types of sperms – one type carries X chromosome and the other carries Y chromosome.
  Fertilisation possibilities:
  • If an X-bearing sperm fertilises the egg (X), the resulting zygote will have XX chromosomes. This develops into a girl child.
  • If a Y-bearing sperm fertilises the egg (X), the zygote will have XY chromosomes. This develops into a boy child.
  Therefore, the sex of the baby depends on whether the sperm cell from the father carries an X or a Y chromosome. The mother always contributes an X chromosome. Hence, scientifically, it is the father’s sperm, not the mother, that decides whether the child will be a boy or a girl.

• Q18. “It is wrong to blame the mother for the birth of a girl child.” Justify this statement scientifically.

  Ans. Many societies wrongly blame the mother if a girl child is born, but science clearly proves that this belief is incorrect.
  
  

  • Every human body cell has 23 pairs of chromosomes, including one pair of sex chromosomes.
  • The mother has two X chromosomes (XX), so every egg she produces carries only an X chromosome.
  • The father has one X and one Y chromosome (XY), so he produces two types of sperms – half with X and half with Y.
  • If an X-bearing sperm fertilises the egg, the combination is XX and the child is a girl. If a Y-bearing sperm fertilises the egg, the combination is XY and the child is a boy.
  From this it is clear that the sex of the child depends on which type of sperm from the father fuses with the egg. The mother’s contribution is always X and is the same in both cases. Therefore, blaming the mother for the birth of a girl child is unscientific, unfair and promotes gender discrimination.

• Q19. How can understanding the scientific process of sex determination help in promoting gender equality in society?

  Ans. Understanding sex determination using chromosomes helps society overcome myths and discrimination against girls.
  
  It promotes gender equality in the following ways:

  • People realise that neither the mother nor the child can control being born as a boy or a girl; it is decided naturally by the chromosome combination at fertilisation.
  • The common belief that the mother is “responsible” for the birth of a girl is shown to be completely wrong. This reduces the emotional and social pressure on women.
  • It encourages equal respect and love for both sons and daughters because both are a result of natural biological processes and are equally valuable.
  • It helps in discouraging harmful practices like female foeticide and gender-based discrimination and supports laws and campaigns that work for the protection and education of the girl child.
  Thus scientific knowledge becomes a powerful tool to bring about positive change in attitudes and to build a fair and equal society.

• Q20. Write a short note on the importance of giving correct information to adolescents about their bodies and sex determination.

  Ans. Adolescents often have many questions about the changes taking place in their bodies and about topics like menstruation, reproduction and sex determination. Providing correct information is very important because:

  • It removes fear, confusion and shame. When children understand that changes like menstruation, growth of hair and change in voice are natural, they accept them confidently.
  • It protects them from false beliefs and superstitions, such as blaming mothers for the birth of a girl child or treating menstruation as impure.
  • It helps them develop a healthy and respectful attitude towards their own bodies and those of others.
  • It encourages gender equality by explaining that boys and girls are biologically different but equal in value and rights.
  • It enables adolescents to take informed decisions and avoid risky behaviour, leading to safer and healthier lives.
  Parents, teachers and health workers should therefore talk openly and sensitively with adolescents and answer their questions honestly, using simple scientific explanations as given in the NCERT textbook.

6. Health, Hygiene, Exercise and Emotional Well-beingHealthy Growing Up

Balanced diet, exercise, mental health and avoiding harmful habits.

• Q21. Explain why a balanced diet is particularly important during adolescence. Suggest suitable food items for a balanced diet.

  Ans. During adolescence, the body grows rapidly in height and weight and the brain also develops quickly. For this fast growth and activity, adolescents need a balanced diet which contains all nutrients in proper amounts.
  
  Importance of balanced diet:

  • Proteins are needed for body building and repair of tissues.
  • Carbohydrates and fats provide energy for study, games and daily activities.
  • Vitamins and minerals protect the body from diseases and support growth of bones, teeth and blood.
  • Water and roughage help in digestion and removal of wastes.
  Suitable food items: A balanced diet for adolescents should include:
  • Cereals like rice, wheat, chapati or bread.
  • Pulses, milk, curd, eggs, fish or meat for proteins.
  • Plenty of fruits and green leafy vegetables for vitamins, minerals and fibre.
  • Limited amounts of oils, ghee and nuts for fats.
  They should avoid too much junk food, soft drinks and very oily snacks as these give mainly fats and sugar but very few useful nutrients.

• Q22. Give reasons why personal hygiene and cleanliness are essential during adolescence. Mention any four good hygiene practices.

  Ans. Personal hygiene is essential during adolescence because sweat and oil secretion increase due to hormonal changes. This creates a moist and oily environment on the skin which favours the growth of bacteria and fungi, leading to body odour, pimples and infections. Menstruating girls are at extra risk of reproductive tract infections if hygiene is poor.
  
  Four good hygiene practices are:

  • Daily bathing: Take a bath every day and after physical activity using soap and clean water to remove sweat and dirt.
  • Clean clothes: Wear washed clothes and undergarments made of absorbent material like cotton to keep the body dry and fresh.
  • Hair and skin care: Wash hair regularly and keep nails trimmed. Clean the face gently to reduce excessive oil and avoid touching pimples.
  • Menstrual hygiene: Girls should use clean sanitary pads or cloths, change them frequently and dispose them properly.
  These simple habits keep adolescents healthy, prevent bad smell and infections and help them feel comfortable and confident.

• Q23. How does regular physical exercise and adequate rest help adolescents in healthy growth and development?

  Ans. Regular physical exercise and sufficient rest are as important as a balanced diet for adolescents.
  
  Benefits of exercise:

  • Exercise strengthens bones and muscles, making the body fit and strong.
  • It improves blood circulation and increases the capacity of heart and lungs.
  • It helps maintain healthy body weight and prevents obesity, which can cause many health problems.
  • Exercise reduces stress and anxiety, improves mood and increases concentration, which helps in studies.
  Importance of rest and sleep:
  • During sleep, the body repairs tissues and the brain processes information learned during the day.
  • Adolescents need adequate sleep (about 8 hours) to support growth and to feel fresh and active.
  • Lack of sleep can cause tiredness, irritability and poor attention in class.
  Therefore, adolescents should play outdoor games, participate in sports, exercise regularly and also ensure regular sleeping and waking habits for healthy growth.

• Q24. Describe some common emotional changes during adolescence. How can adolescents manage these changes in a healthy way?

  Ans. Along with physical changes, adolescents experience many emotional changes due to hormonal effects and new responsibilities. Common emotional changes include:

  • Mood swings – feeling very happy at one moment and sad or angry at another.
  • Increased self-consciousness – worrying about appearance and what others think.
  • Strong desire for independence and sometimes conflict with parents or elders.
  • Curiosity about the opposite sex and about their own identity and future.
  Adolescents can manage these changes in a healthy way by:
  • Talking openly with parents, teachers or a trusted elder about their doubts and feelings.
  • Choosing good friends who have positive habits and avoiding bad company.
  • Using their energy in studies, sports, hobbies and creative activities.
  • Practising self-control, deep breathing or relaxation when angry or upset instead of reacting immediately.
  Understanding that such feelings are normal and temporary helps adolescents to handle them wisely and grow into emotionally balanced adults.

• Q25. Why should adolescents firmly say “No” to smoking, alcohol and drugs? Explain any four harmful effects of these substances.

  Ans. Adolescents should firmly say “No” to smoking, alcohol and drugs because their bodies and brains are still developing and these substances can cause long-lasting damage. Peer pressure may tempt them to try such substances, but they must understand the dangers.
  
  Four harmful effects are:

  • Damage to body organs: Smoking harms the lungs and can cause cough, breathing problems and lung cancer. Alcohol and many drugs damage the liver, heart and nervous system.
  • Addiction: These substances can create dependence. Once addicted, it becomes very difficult to stop, and the person may lose control over behaviour.
  • Poor academic performance: They reduce concentration, memory and interest in studies. The adolescent may lose interest in school, sports and family.
  • Risky behaviour: Under the influence of drugs or alcohol, people may take wrong decisions, get involved in accidents, fights or crimes and spoil their future.
  Saying a strong and confident “No” to such habits protects health, saves money and keeps the path open for a bright and successful life.

• Q26. List the main “Do’s and Don’ts” that an adolescent should follow for safe and healthy growth.

  Ans. Adolescence is a sensitive stage, so following certain “Do’s and Don’ts” helps in safe and healthy growth.
  
  Do’s:

  • Eat a balanced diet including milk, pulses, fruits and vegetables.
  • Play outdoor games and exercise regularly to keep the body fit.
  • Maintain personal hygiene by bathing daily and wearing clean clothes.
  • Sleep early and get enough rest every night.
  • Talk honestly with parents or teachers about any problems or doubts.
  • Respect others and treat boys and girls equally.
  Don’ts:
  • Do not smoke, drink alcohol or take drugs even “just to try”.
  • Do not skip meals or depend mainly on junk food.
  • Do not believe in myths and rumours about body changes and menstruation.
  • Do not compare yourself constantly with others or feel inferior.
  • Do not be rude or violent when you are angry; instead, calm down first.
  Following these guidelines helps adolescents grow into healthy, confident and responsible adults.

• Q27. How can parents and teachers support adolescents to cope with changes during this stage?

  Ans. Parents and teachers play a very important role in helping adolescents cope with the many physical and emotional changes they face. They can support adolescents by:

  • Providing correct information: Calmly explaining the scientific reasons for changes like menstruation, voice change and hair growth helps remove fear and confusion.
  • Listening patiently: Adults should give time to adolescents to express their feelings and problems without fear of being scolded or laughed at.
  • Showing love and acceptance: Encouraging words, trust and appreciation increase confidence and reduce stress.
  • Setting good examples: Children learn from what they see. When elders show honesty, respect and discipline, adolescents are more likely to follow these values.
  • Guiding, not forcing: Instead of imposing decisions, adults should discuss options, explain consequences and guide adolescents to take responsible decisions.
  With this support, adolescents feel secure, valued and better prepared to face the challenges of growing up.

• Q28. “Adolescence is an age of opportunities as well as challenges.” Explain this statement with examples.

  Ans. Adolescence is indeed an age of both opportunities and challenges.
  
  Opportunities:

  • The body and brain are growing rapidly, so it is a good time to learn new skills, languages, sports and develop talents.
  • Good habits formed now, such as regular study, exercise and healthy eating, usually continue into adulthood.
  • Adolescents begin to understand complex ideas and can think about their career and future goals.
  Challenges:
  • They face pressure from studies, exams and sometimes from parents’ expectations.
  • They experience mood swings and confusion about identity and relationships.
  • There may be peer pressure to try harmful habits like smoking or to follow fashion blindly.
  If adolescents use the guidance of elders, choose good friends and follow healthy habits, they can convert most challenges into opportunities and build a strong foundation for a successful adult life.

• Q29. Summarise the main changes that take place during adolescence in a tabular or point form for revision.

  Ans. The main changes during adolescence can be summarised as follows:

  • Physical changes: Growth spurt, increase in height and weight, change in body shape (broader shoulders in boys, broader hips in girls), development of muscles.
  • Secondary sexual characters: Facial and body hair growth in boys, development of breasts in girls, hair in armpits and pubic region in both.
  • Reproductive organs: Maturation of testes and ovaries, start of sperm production in boys and ovum release and menstruation in girls.
  • Hormonal changes: Increased activity of endocrine glands, especially pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands and sex glands, leading to all the changes of puberty.
  • Skin changes: Increased sweating and oil secretion, causing body odour and acne if hygiene is not maintained.
  • Emotional and social changes: Mood swings, search for identity, need for independence, stronger peer relationships and increased responsibility.
  This summary helps in quick revision of the chapter for exams.

• Q30. Write a brief “checklist for self-evaluation” that an adolescent can use to ensure he or she is growing up in a healthy way.

  Ans. An adolescent can use the following checklist for self-evaluation:

  • Diet: Do I eat regular meals? Do I include milk, pulses, fruits and vegetables in my diet and limit junk food?
  • Exercise: Do I play games or exercise for at least 30–45 minutes most days of the week?
  • Hygiene: Do I bathe daily, wear clean clothes and take care of my teeth, hair and skin?
  • Sleep: Do I get enough sleep and feel fresh in the morning?
  • Emotions: Do I talk to someone I trust when I am worried or confused instead of keeping everything inside?
  • Habits: Do I firmly avoid smoking, alcohol, drugs and other risky activities, even if friends try to force me?
  • Respect: Do I treat others, especially girls, with respect and avoid teasing or bullying?
  If the answers are mostly “Yes”, it means the adolescent is growing up in a healthy way. If some answers are “No”, he or she should try to improve in those areas with the help of elders.