Grade 5 Q&A: Chapter 15: Communication and Mass Media

Concept Questions

Q1: What are INSAT satellites used for in India?

Answer: INSAT (Indian National Satellites) are artificial satellites launched into space by means of rockets, and they are used for communication purposes in India.

Q2: How do modern methods of communication using artificial satellites help us? Give two examples.

Answer: Modern methods of communication using artificial satellites deliver signals very quickly from one point to another. 1. We can watch the live telecast of any event going on in any part of the world (e.g., football or cricket matches). 2. With the help of mobile phones, we can directly talk to people in other countries.

Q3: What is 'communication'?

Answer: Communication is the exchange of information. Information broadcast is also a part of communication.

Q4: What is the main advantage of telecommunication and mass media in terms of distance and effort?

Answer: They allow us to easily contact people far away from us, and save time and effort spent in exchanging information.

Q5: How do telecommunication and mass media help in raising awareness about social issues?

Answer: They help to raise awareness about issues such as environmental balance, gender equality, and cleanliness.

Q6: How do mass media help in disaster preparedness?

Answer: Mass media can forewarn people about natural disasters like storms, tsunamis, floods, etc., allowing them to take precautions.

Q7: Name two ways mass media improve people's way of life.

Answer: Mass media build awareness about health, educational facilities, good things happening in society, and matters related to food, clothes, shelter, education, and health, thereby improving people’s way of life.

Q8: What is the benefit of mass media for trade and industry?

Answer: Mass media help in the expansion of trade and industry.

Q9: Name three disadvantages of excessive use of television, computers, or mobile phones.

Answer: 1. It causes disorders of the eyes, ears, and back. 2. It can lead to psychological disorders and isolation. 3. Time spent on screens leads to the neglect of outdoor sports and physical fitness, adversely affecting physical health.

Q10: What is the risk of information being misused through television channels and the internet?

Answer: There are instances of information being misused to disturb the peace and order in society.

Q11: What is the general rule for using telecommunication devices?

Answer: Telecommunication devices should be used properly and sensibly, and we must be careful not to use them excessively.

Q12: What is audio-visual communication? Give an example.

Answer: Audio-visual communication allows us to both hear and see the person we are talking to. For example, modern mobile phone technology enables us to see the person we are talking to.

Application-Based Questions

Q13: Amod, a fifth-standard student, spends all his time on computer websites, TV shows, and mobile games. He has lost appetite, is drowsy, and gained weight. What is the solution for Amod's mother?

Answer: Amod's mother should encourage him to reduce his screen time significantly. She should motivate him to engage in outdoor sports and physical activities, ensure he eats a balanced diet, and perhaps seek advice from a doctor or counselor if his symptoms persist.

Q14: Before telephones, how were messages communicated over long distances?

Answer: Before telephones, messages were communicated over long distances using methods like letters sent by post, telegraphs, or even earlier, through messengers, smoke signals, or drum beats.

Q15: How can mass media be used to educate people about preventing infectious diseases?

Answer: Mass media can be used to educate people about preventing infectious diseases by broadcasting public awareness programs on TV and radio, publishing articles in newspapers, and sharing information through social media. These platforms can explain disease causes, prevention methods (like hygiene, vaccination), and symptoms, encouraging healthy practices.

Q16: You want to organize a street play to spread awareness about cleanliness in your locality. How would mass media help you promote this event?

Answer: Mass media could help promote the street play by: * **Newspapers:** Publishing announcements about the date, time, and location of the play. * **Local Radio:** Broadcasting spots or interviews about the play and its message. * **Social Media/Online Platforms:** Sharing event details, photos, and videos to reach a wider audience quickly.

Q17: Why is it important for information broadcast through mass media to be accurate and responsible?

Answer: It is important for information broadcast through mass media to be accurate and responsible because false or misleading information can cause panic during disasters, spread misinformation about health, incite social unrest, or lead to misinformed decisions. Accurate and responsible information builds trust, helps people make good choices, and contributes to a well-ordered and informed society.

Higher-Order Thinking Questions

Q18: "Information is useful for constructing knowledge." Elaborate on this statement with examples from your daily life where information from mass media helps you learn.

Answer: This statement means that raw information, when processed and understood, becomes knowledge that helps us comprehend the world. For example, watching a news report (information) about a new scientific discovery helps us understand (construct knowledge) how that discovery might impact our lives. Reading a newspaper article about an environmental issue (information) helps us form an opinion and learn about solutions (construct knowledge) for protecting our planet. Similarly, educational programs on TV provide facts that build our understanding of various subjects.

Q19: How has the evolution of communication technology (from letters to mobile phones with video calls) impacted global interconnectedness and cultural exchange?

Answer: The evolution of communication technology has profoundly impacted global interconnectedness and cultural exchange. From slow letters, which limited real-time interaction, to instant mobile calls and video calls, geographical distances have virtually disappeared. This allows for immediate communication across continents, fostering stronger personal and professional relationships globally. Culturally, it enables rapid sharing of ideas, traditions, music, and art, leading to greater understanding, appreciation, and sometimes even fusion of diverse cultures, making the world a much smaller and more interconnected place.

Q20: The chapter mentions that "Time spent on watching television leads to the neglect of outdoor sports and physical fitness." Discuss the long-term societal implications of this trend.

Answer: The long-term societal implications of neglecting outdoor sports and physical fitness due to excessive screen time are significant. This trend can lead to: * **Public Health Crisis:** Increased rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other lifestyle-related ailments across the population. * **Reduced Social Skills:** Less face-to-face interaction and outdoor play can hinder the development of crucial social and emotional skills in children. * **Mental Health Issues:** Increased screen time is linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and isolation, especially in younger generations. * **Lower Productivity:** A less healthy and active population may experience reduced energy levels and productivity in education and the workforce. * **Strained Healthcare Systems:** A sicker population places a greater burden on healthcare resources.

Q21: Why is it crucial for children, like Amod in the example, to develop a balanced approach to using telecommunication devices?

Answer: It is crucial for children to develop a balanced approach because while telecommunication devices offer immense educational and communicative benefits, their excessive or improper use can lead to serious physical and psychological harm. A balanced approach ensures that children can leverage the advantages of technology for learning and connection without sacrificing their physical health, mental well-being, social development, or academic performance. It teaches them self-control and responsible digital citizenship from a young age.

References

1. Maharashtra State Board Environmental Studies (Part One) Standard Five Textbook (2015 Edition) - Chapter 15: Communication and Mass Media, pages 73-76.
2. Maharashtra State Board 5th Standard Environmental Studies Syllabus.
3. Balbharati Environmental Studies Part 1 Textbook.