The World of Growing Knowledge - 2 Class 5 Worksheet SST

Q1: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

(i) The earliest form of writing involved using pictures to represent words, known as:
(a) Cuneiform
(b) Hieroglyphics
(c) Alphabets
(d) Braille
Ans: (b)
Hieroglyphics was an early form of writing that used pictures to represent words. It was used in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
(ii) The concept of zero and the decimal system were introduced by:
(a) China
(b) Mesopotamia
(c) India
(d) Egypt
Ans: (c)
The concept of zero and the decimal system were introduced by India. These numerals were later adopted by the Arab world and are now commonly used.

(iii) The printing press was invented by Johann Gutenberg in the year:

(a) 500 CE
(b) 1455
(c) 1829
(d) 1994
Ans: (b)
Johann Gutenberg invented the printing press in 1455. This invention revolutionized the spread of knowledge and made books more accessible.

(iv) Louis Braille invented a script for the visually impaired that uses:
(a) Raised dots on thick paper
(b) Different colors for each letter
(c) Embossed symbols on metal sheets
(d) Magnetic dots on a digital screen
Ans: (a)
Louis Braille invented a script using raised dots on thick paper to help visually impaired individuals read and write.

(v) India's ancient university, known for its rich history of learning, is called:
(a) Oxford University
(b) Nalanda University
(c) Harvard University
(d) Cambridge University
Ans: (b)
Nalanda University, located in India, was known for its contributions to learning and education in ancient times.

Q2: Fill in the Blanks

(i) The earliest form of writing involved using pictures to represent words, known as _______________.
(ii) The decimal system, which forms the basis of the international numeric system, was introduced by _______________.
(iii) The ancient Egyptians invented paper by utilizing a plant called _______________.
(iv) The printing press was invented by _______________ in the year 1455.
(v) Louis Braille invented a special script for the visually impaired, known as _______________.
(vi) India's renowned ancient university was named _______________.
(vii) The Indian government has implemented various _______________ programs to promote education.
(viii) The campaign "Each One Teach One" encourages individuals to _______________.
(ix) The District Primary Education Programme was launched in the year _______________.
(x) The advancement of education plays a pivotal role in nurturing societies and driving _______________.
Ans: 
(i) Hieroglyphics
(ii) India
(iii) Papyrus
(iv) Johann Gutenberg
(v) Braille
(vi) Nalanda University
(vii) Literacy
(viii) Teach others to read and write
(ix) 1994
(x) Progress

Q3: True or False

(i) The earliest form of writing involved using alphabets. (True/False)
(ii) The decimal system was introduced by China. (True/False)
(iii) The printing press was invented in the 18th century. (True/False)
(iv) The Braille script is designed for visually impaired individuals. (True/False)
(v) The Indian government has not implemented any programs to promote education. (True/False)
Ans:
(i) False - The earliest form of writing involved using pictures, not alphabets, to represent words.
(ii) False - The decimal system was introduced by India, not China.
(iii) False - The printing press was invented in the 15th century, not the 18th century.
(iv) True - The Braille script is indeed designed to aid visually impaired individuals in reading and writing.
(v) False - The Indian government has implemented various programs to promote education, including adult education initiatives and free primary education programs.

Q4: Match the Following

Ans:

Q5: Short Answer Questions

(i) Describe the earliest form of writing and its significance in human communication.
Ans: The earliest form of writing involved using pictures to represent words. This method, known as hieroglyphics, was used in ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia. It was significant as it allowed people to convey information and communicate even without a spoken language. This form of writing marked the transition from solely relying on oral tradition to a more permanent means of recording information.

(ii) How did the invention of the printing press revolutionize the field of writing and knowledge dissemination?
Ans: The invention of the printing press by Johann Gutenberg revolutionized the field of writing by making the mass production of books possible. Before the printing press, books were handwritten, which was slow and costly. The printing press allowed for the production of books in larger quantities and at a significantly reduced cost. This democratized access to knowledge, as books became more accessible to a wider audience, not just the privileged few. The Gutenberg Bible was the first book printed using movable type, which facilitated the efficient printing of text.

(iii) What is the purpose of the Braille script, and how does it work for visually impaired individuals?
Ans: The Braille script was invented by Louis Braille to aid individuals with visual impairments in reading and writing. The script uses raised dots on thick paper to form letters, numbers, and even musical notations. Visually impaired individuals read Braille by running their fingers over the dots, and different dot arrangements represent different letters or characters. This script has been instrumental in enhancing the educational opportunities of visually challenged individuals, allowing them to learn and communicate effectively.

(iv) Name one ancient Indian university and discuss its importance in history.
Ans: Nalanda University was one of the world's first universities, located in India. It was a renowned center of learning and attracted scholars and students from various parts of the world. The university played a crucial role in the exchange of knowledge, particularly in subjects like philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Nalanda University's rich history reflects India's historical emphasis on education and learning.

(v) Briefly explain the importance of education in the progress of societies and nations.
Ans: Education is pivotal for the development of individuals, families, societies, and nations. It provides the necessary knowledge and skills for personal and societal growth. Illiteracy acts as a barrier to progress. Initiatives like adult education programs, free primary education, and campaigns like "Each One Teach One" are aimed at promoting education and increasing literacy rates. Education helps individuals make informed decisions, improves their employability, and contributes to the overall well-being of a society. It also nurtures critical thinking and creativity, fostering innovation and progress in various fields.