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Class 6 → Social Science → Chapter 3: Landforms and Life
I. Chapter Summary
This chapter explains the different types of landforms on Earth such as mountains, plains, plateaus, and deserts, and how they influence human life. It highlights the relationship between physical features and human activities like agriculture, settlement, transport, and occupation. Students learn that landforms are not just physical features but play a crucial role in shaping culture, lifestyle, and economic activities of people living in different regions.
II. Key Concepts Covered
1. Landforms
Natural features of the Earth’s surface. Major landforms include:
- Mountains
- Plains
- Plateaus
- Deserts
2. Mountains
- High and steep landforms
- Climate is cold
- Less population
- Activities: Tourism, terrace farming
3. Plains
- Flat and fertile land
- Dense population
- Suitable for agriculture and settlements
4. Plateaus
- Flat-topped elevated land
- Rich in minerals
- Mining activities common
5. Deserts
- Dry areas with very little rainfall
- Sparse vegetation
- Extreme temperatures
6. Life in Different Landforms
- People adapt according to environment
- Different food, clothing, houses, and occupations
7. Human Adaptation
- Lifestyle depends on climate and landform
- Example:
- Mountains → woolen clothes
- Plains → farming
- Desert → water conservation
III. Important Questions
(A) MCQs (1 Mark)
- Which landform is most suitable for agriculture?
(a) Mountains
(b) Plateaus
(c) Plains ✅
(d) Deserts - Which landform is rich in minerals?
(a) Plains
(b) Plateaus ✅
(c) Mountains
(d) Deserts - Deserts receive:
(a) Heavy rainfall
(b) Moderate rainfall
(c) Very little rainfall ✅
(d) Snowfall - People in mountains wear woollen clothes because:
(a) It is hot
(b) It is cold ✅
(c) It is rainy
(d) It is humid
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks)
- What are landforms?
- Name any two features of mountains.
- Why are plains densely populated?
- What are plateaus known for?
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks)
- Describe the features of mountains and their effect on human life.
- Explain why plains are suitable for human settlements.
- Discuss the importance of plateaus.
- How do deserts affect human life and activities?
(D) HOTS Questions
- Why do different landforms lead to different lifestyles?
- How would life be different if all landforms on Earth were the same?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts
Important Definitions:
- Landform: Natural feature of Earth’s surface
- Mountain: High and steep land
- Plain: Flat and fertile land
- Plateau: Elevated flat land
- Desert: Dry region with low rainfall
Key Concept:
➡️ “Landforms influence human life and activities.”
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026)
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026)
| Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
|---|---|---|
| Landforms and Life | 6–8 Marks | MCQs, Short Answer, Case-based |
Note: This is an estimate. Actual marks may vary.
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
1 Mark
- Which landform is known as the storehouse of minerals? (CBSE 2019)
→ Plateau
2/3 Marks
- What are plains? (CBSE 2020)
- Why are deserts sparsely populated? (CBSE 2018)
5 Marks
- Explain how landforms affect human life. (CBSE 2022)
- Describe different types of landforms. (CBSE 2021)
VIII. Real-World Application Examples
Mountains
4
- Tourism (e.g., hill stations like Shimla)
- Terrace farming
- Hydroelectric power
Plains
4
- Agriculture (wheat, rice)
- Dense population (cities)
- Easy transportation
Plateaus & Deserts
4
- Plateaus: Mining (coal, iron)
- Deserts: Camel transport, water conservation
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success
Time Management
- Study one landform at a time.
- Make short notes for revision.
Exam Preparation
- Learn differences between landforms.
- Use diagrams and maps.
Stress Management
- Study with visuals and examples.
- Practice regularly in small sessions.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration (Class 6 Level)
- Helps in future fields like:
- Geography
- Environmental Science
- Agriculture
- Urban Planning
- Develops:
- Analytical thinking
- Understanding of environment
- Awareness of natural resources
XI. Important Notes
- Focus on conceptual understanding of landforms.
- Revise key differences (mountain vs plateau vs plain).
- Practice case-based questions.
- Always refer to NCERT textbook for accuracy.


