Short & Long Questions Answers: Melting Ice in Alaska | Gul Mohar Class 8: Book Solutions, Summaries & Worksheets PDF Download

Short Answer Questions

Q2: Why are the residents of Newtok being called climate change transplants?
Ans: The residents of Newtok are among the first in North America to move their entire village because of the effects of climate change. Their relocation due to environmental damage has made them early climate change transplants.

Q3: How is climate change affecting the traditional lifestyle of the Yup’ik people?
Ans: Climate change is threatening the subsistence lifestyle of the Yup’ik people by reducing access to natural resources, damaging hunting grounds, and increasing the risks to their homes and communities due to environmental instability.

Q4: Why do Newtok residents live without proper plumbing and sanitation?
Ans: Due to limited infrastructure and funding, the residents of Newtok have lived without plumbing for decades. They collect water in jugs, and poor sanitation has led to health issues, especially among young children.

Q5: What services are still missing in the newly built village of Mertarvik?
Ans: Although Mertarvik has electricity and some homes, it still lacks running water and a sewer system. These essential services are delayed due to slow funding and are expected to take years to be fully installed.

Q6: What do the ‘storms’ mentioned by Andrew John refer to?
Ans: The ‘storms’ refer both to the literal harsh weather in Alaska and the challenges posed by climate change. The community is relocating in a temporary phase of calm before future problems worsen.

Q7: Why are the people of Newtok experiencing mixed emotions about the move?
Ans: While many residents feel relieved and hopeful about better services in Mertarvik, they are also sad to leave behind their old homes, traditions, and social bonds formed over generations in Newtok.

Q8: Why does Martha Kasaiuli express her feelings through a poem?
Ans: Martha uses poetry to express her sadness about leaving Newtok and her hope for the future. Poetry helps her convey complex emotions about loss, change, and the new beginning her community is facing.

Q9: What role has the government played in helping Newtok relocate?
Ans: The government approved the relocation in 2003 and has slowly provided funds to build infrastructure in Mertarvik. This includes roads, a community center, and a water treatment plant, although progress has been slow.

Q10: What does John mean when he says the Yup’ik people have the ability to adapt?
Ans: John means that the Yup’ik people have a long history of adapting to challenges. Despite the hardships of relocating, they are resilient and willing to embrace change to protect their community’s future.

Long Answer Questions

Q2: How does the story of Newtok reflect the broader impact of climate change on human life?
Ans: The story of Newtok is a powerful example of how climate change affects people directly. As rising temperatures melt permafrost and increase coastal erosion, entire communities like Newtok are forced to move. This not only disrupts daily life but also threatens cultural heritage, traditional lifestyles, and community bonds. The relocation of Newtok shows how vulnerable people living close to nature are facing the harshest effects of climate change. It highlights the need for urgent action to address environmental problems. The story also shows that climate change is not just a scientific issue—it affects real people, their homes, health, emotions, and way of life in significant ways.

Q3: Describe the emotional impact of the relocation on the residents of Newtok, especially the youth.
Ans: The relocation has caused mixed emotions among the residents, especially the younger generation. While there is hope for better services and safer homes in Mertarvik, many feel deep sadness about leaving their birthplace. Youth like Martha Kasaiuli have grown up in Newtok and are reluctant to part from friends and familiar surroundings. Her poem reflects this conflict—she feels sorrow but understands the necessity of the move. The emotional strain is worsened by separation from friends, uncertainty about the future, and a sense of losing cultural identity. Despite these feelings, many remain hopeful that Mertarvik will eventually become home and offer a better life.

Q4: In what ways does the article show the strength and adaptability of the Yup’ik people?
Ans: The article highlights the resilience of the Yup’ik people through their ability to face environmental and emotional challenges with courage. Despite the hardships of relocating, they remain committed to preserving their community and values. They continue to practice their subsistence lifestyle while adapting to new living conditions. Tribal leaders and families work together to build new homes, organize education, and protect their traditions. Statements by community members, such as Andrew John and Martha, show how they are emotionally affected but still hopeful. Their willingness to rebuild their lives from scratch in Mertarvik demonstrates their strength, flexibility, and strong connection to one another.

Q5: What lessons can be learned from the relocation of Newtok in terms of climate action and preparedness?
Ans: Newtok’s relocation teaches that the effects of climate change are urgent and real. Communities must plan ahead and act before disasters strike. The slow funding and delays show the importance of quick, coordinated support from governments and organizations. It also highlights the need for long-term solutions like building resilient infrastructure and relocating vulnerable populations with dignity. The residents’ story shows how people can come together, even in crisis, to rebuild their lives. It reminds us that climate change is a human issue, not just an environmental one, and that global efforts are needed to support those most affected. Preparedness and adaptation must become a priority worldwide.