Social Studies and Population Education Book 8_2078 Revised and Updated Edition

Lesson HUMAN RIGHTS 2 Human beings are rational beings and are different from other species. The society and the country should show humane and ideal behavior towards its citizens. It should be based on peace, freedom and justice. As a human being, we should get certain rights which are known as human rights. In other words, human rights are rights inherent to all human beings. We have the power to think, create and have the ability to solve problems. This is the reason why we are expected to behave rationally, respecting the human values and principles. According to Human Rights Act 2053 BS, “Human Rights are those rights given in the constitution and other laws prevailed in our country and international conservations, protocols and treaties signed by Nepal which are related to liberty equality and dignity of human life”. Eleanor Roosevelt was the first person to introduce the concept of human rights internationally. In her initiation the United Nation issued the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the 10th of December 1948 AD. It has been helping to ensure and promote the human rights worldwide. Every year, 10th of December is observed as International Human Rights Day. The summary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. 2. No one can be discriminated on any grounds. 3. Everyone has the right to live a secure life. 4. No one should be held in slavery or servitude. 5. No one should be subjected to torture or to cruel punishment. 6. The rights are equal for everyone everywhere. 7. Everyone is equal before the law. 8. Law guarantees the protection of the rights. 9. No one can be imprisoned or exiled from the country without a valid reason. 10. Everyone has the right to legal treatment. 11. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty. 12. Everyone has the right to privacy. 13. Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within a country. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 101

14. Everyone has the right to go to other countries to seek for asylum from persecution. 15. Everyone has the right to nationality. 16. Everyone has the right to marriage and to found a family. 17. Everyone has the right to own a property and no one shall be deprived from their property. 18. Everyone has the right to follow or change his/her religion or belief. 19. Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression. 20. Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association. 21. Everyone has the right to vote. 22. Everyone has the right to social security. 23. Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for equal work. 24. Everyone has the right to rest and leisure with reasonable limitation of working hour. 25. Everyone has the right to home, food, clothes, medical care, and right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability and other circumstances beyond their control. 26. Everyone has the right to education. 27. Everyone has the right of copyright for their creation in any form. 28. Everyone has the right to fully realize their rights and freedom. 29. Everyone is responsible not to infringe others’ right. 30. Everyone is responsible not to breach the human rights. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Logo of NHRC Nepal was established in 2000 AD. It is established to ensure that each citizen of our country has been enjoying their rights. This commission works in accordance with the law and clauses mentioned in the constitution to ensure human rights. The organizations like Amnesty International, Informal sector service centre (INSEC) and INHURED International are established for the protection of human rights. They make the government and the citizens aware of their rights. Note to the teacher: Human right is our basic right. Make the students aware and discuss about the various aspects of human rights. Conduct a oracle on the topic ‘Human right is our right’. 102 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Key Terms Breach : an act of breaking or failing to observe a law Dignity : quality of being worthy of respect Infringe : actively break the terms of a law Inherent : existing as an inseparable part Initiation : the action of beginning something Persecution : ill-treatment, especially because of race or political or religious beliefs Servitude : the state of being a slave Evaluation Exercises Activity Collect some old magazines. Find out news, pictures, and drawings regarding human rights. Paste them in the scrapbook and present it. Very short answer questions 1. What is Human Right? 2. When was ‘Universal Declaration of Human Right’ issued by the UN General Assembly? 3. How many articles are there in ‘Universal Declaration of Human Right’? 4. What lesson should the Nepalese women learn from the life of Eleanor Roosevelt’s? 5. What is Social Security? Short answer questions 1. What freedoms fall under the right to opinion and expression? 2. Write about the functions of National Human Rights Commission. 3. What needs to be done for the protection of human rights? 4. Which articles of Universal Declaration of Human Rights cover the rights of children? Long answer questions 1. Mention the activities done by Human Rights Organizations to protect human rights in Nepal. 2. What is human right? Mention any seven provisions of ‘Universal Declaration of Human Right’. 3. Write an editorial on “Present condition of Human Rights in Nepal”. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 103

Lesson WOMEN’S RIGHT 3 Mrs. Rashmi Gurung is a social worker. She works for the protection of women’s right. Ms. Nirmala Pradhan has taken her interview for magazine. Following is the extract of the interview: Nirmala : Namaste Ma’am. Rashmi : Namaste. Nirmala : As you have been working for the women welfare for long time, can you please clear what is “women’s right”? Rashmi : Ok, I will. As you all know about human rights, women’s right is an important part of human rights. These are the rights to be obtained by every woman. In 1967 AD, the General Assembly of United Nations had published a formal statement about the welfare of women and their rights. Those rights are the women’s right. Nirmala : What rights are included in women’s right? Rashmi : Women’s right can be listed in the following points: The end of women violence and discrimination on the basis of gender, The right to reproduction, maternity care and paid maternity leave, The rights to get equal pay for same work as men, Equal right on the parental property, Right to marriage, family, religion and education and End of bad practices like child marriage. 104 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Nirmala : Why are women still lagging behind? Rashmi : The reasons why women are lagging behind are listed below: The society being patriarchal, Traditional beliefs and discrimination between men and women, Women deprived from the opportunity of education, Widespread belief that women are weaker, Lack of reproductive health service for women, Due to orthodox concept that exists in people and Lack of effectiveness on women empowerment programs. Nirmala : What efforts have been made for the establishment of women’s right and women empowerment? Rashmi : The Constitution of Nepal has provisioned some points for women’s right and empowerment which are as follows: Every women shall have equal right to lineage without any gender discriminations. Every women shall have the right relating to safe motherhood and reproductive health. There shall not be any physical, mental, sexual or psychological or any other kind of violence against women, or any other kind of oppression based on religious, social and cultural tradition, and other practices. Such an act shall be punishable by law and the victim shall have the right to be compensation as provided by law. Women shall have the right to access participate in all state structures and bodies on the basis of the principle of proportional inclusion. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 105

Women shall have the right to special opportunity in the spheres of education, health, employment and social security on the basis of positive discrimination. Both the spouses shall have equal rights in property and family affairs. The ministry of social welfare has been established to formulate policies to ensure the rights of women, children and disabled. The National women’s commission has also been established for the same purpose. Beside this, National Women Rights Forum, Nepal, Women for Human Rights, Jagaran Nepal, Saathi, CWISH, Asha Nepal, Nepal Disabled Women Association, etc are contributing for the rights of children and women. Nepal has ratified the convention of 1979 AD which eradicates every kinds of discrimination against women. Every year, March 8th is observed as International Women’s Day. Nirmala : Thank you ma’am for the information. This interview will be published in our next volume. Key Terms Eradicate : put an end to Lineage : descent, ancestry Orthodox : following traditional beliefs Patriarchal : the male head of a family Note to the teacher: Make the students interact with the representatives of those organizations mentioned in this lesson or with those who have been working for this cause. 106 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Discuss about the incidents where women’s rights have been infringed, the violence they have been facing, and the effects of these incidents and the ways to prevent them from such situation. Present it in class. 2. Organize women’s day programme in class. Very short answer questions 1. What do you mean by Women’s Right? 2. When did the UN General Assembly publish a formal statement on women rights? 3. When is International Women’s Day observed? 4. Define Women Empowerment. 5. What is child marriage custom? Short answer questions 1. What are women’s rights? Mention them. 2. What are the acts of women violence? List them. 3. Write some ways for women empowerment. 4. What are the main functions of National Women’s Commission? Find out about it and list them. 5. What points regarding women’s right have been covered by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights? 6. ‘Men and women are two sides of a coin.’ Justify the statement in your own words. Long answer questions 1. What is women right? Write any six points included in Women’s Right. 2. Write a letter to the National Women’s Commission stating about the reasons of backwardness of women and possible measures to solve it. 3. Define Women Empowerment. What are the provisions in the constitution of Nepal regarding women’s right and women empowerment? 4. If you were the Chairperson of Nepal Disabled Women Association, what plan would you make for the disabled women’s welfare and make them independent? Prepare a detail plan. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 107

Lesson INCLUSIVENESS 4 Racial Minority/Oppressed Disability Inclusion Lingual Religious Class Regional Gender Nepal is a geographically diverse country. It is divided into different regions: Mountain, Hilly and Terai. Similarly we can find diversity in weather, animals, plants and herbs in Nepal. The people’s lifestyle varies according to the regions. People living in different parts of the country have their own language, costume and culture. Different people belonging to different caste reside in the Nepalese society. Buddhist, Hindus, Muslims, Kirants, Christians etc are the different religions followed by the Nepalese people. Nepal is a country of permanent residence of the people with different language, religion, gender, culture, etc. Our national identity is Nepali. No one should feel neglected and bias in any circumstances. The citizens deserve respect and should be treated equally. A harmonious environment should be created for all Nepalese to be proud of their motherland. It is the responsibility of the government to create such environment. 108 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Inclusiveness is the process of including socially and economically backward people of various caste, culture, gender, language etc in the mainstream of development by providing education, employment and various opportunities by the state. People belonging to any caste, race, religion, gender etc are entitled to get these opportunities. The state needs to ensure that these rights are enjoyed by every citizen of the country. It is difficult to give equal opportunity to all unless and until all the races and communities are in same level. The state has to be responsible for all the people belonging to different social, cultural, racial, religious, financial, lingual, gender, and disabled/oppressed groups. The state has to formulate effective policies and programs to gain this objective. These objectives ensure the inclusion of all the people. Some important points to be adopted in the process of inclusion are: 1. To ensure proportional representation in all state bodies, 2. To increase opportunity of education, health and employment, 3. To secure seats for the minority/oppressed group in the process of policy and decision making, 4. To respect the identity of all the caste, race, language, religion and gender, 5. To ensure the citizens about the existence of law and justice, 6. To provide the disabled and handicapped people with special opportunities, 7. Equal participation of all in the developmental process and maintain the regional balance, and 8. To maintain social harmony, and religious and cultural tolerance. Key Terms Diverse: : consisting of different things Harmony : coordination Neglect : not care for something properly Oppress : dominate harshly Note to the teacher: Make the students act out a drama on the concept of Inclusion. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 109

Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. How can we ensure the citizens about the existence of law and justice? Enquire about it and discuss in class. 2. Organize an oratory on ‘equitable society and positive discrimination’ in class. Very short answer questions 1. What do you mean by inclusiveness? 2. Why is it necessary to include all people in the mainstream of development? Write in a sentence. Short answer questions 1. How can we make a state inclusive? List some points. 2. How can inclusiveness strengthen the National Unity? Explain. 3. What should be done to maintain regional balance in the developmental process? Discuss. Long answer questions 1. What is inclusiveness? What programmes and policies do you think are needed to make the state inclusive? Write in points. 2. Why is inclusiveness an important aspect of democracy? Write your logics in points. 110 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Lesson PROVISIONS OF INCLUSIVENESS IN NEPAL 5 The constitution of our country has made provision for the inclusion of every group of people. The main provisions provided by the constitution to make the country inclusive are as following: Constitution of Nepal Preamble Protecting and promoting social and cultural solidarity, tolerance and harmony, and unity in diversity by recognizing the multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi- religious, multi-cultural and diverse regional characteristics, resolving to build an egalitarian society founded on the proportional inclusive and participatory principles in order to ensure economic equality, prosperity and social justice, by eliminating discrimination based on class, caste, region, language, religion and gender and all forms of caste-based untouchability, and ………. Part 1 Article 3, Nation All the Nepalese people, with multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-religious, multicultural characteristics and in geographical diversities, and having common aspirations and being united by a bond of allegiance to national independence, territorial integrity, national interest and prosperity of Nepal, collectively constitute the nation. Part 1 Article 6, Language of the Nation (1) All languages spoken as the mother tongues in Nepal are the languages of the nation. Part 3, Article 18, Right to Equality (3) The State shall not discriminate citizens on grounds of origin, religion, race, caste, tribe, sex, economic condition, language, region, ideology or on similar other grounds. (4) No discrimination shall be made on the ground of gender with regard to remuneration and social security for the same work. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 111

Part 3, Article 24, Right against Untouchability and Discrimination (1) No person shall be subjected to any form of untouchability or discrimination in any private and public places on grounds of his or her origin, caste, tribe, community, profession, occupation or physical condition. (5) Any act of untouchability and discrimination shall be punishable by law as a severe social offence, and the victim of such act shall have the right to obtain compensation in accordance with law. Part 3 Article 42, Right to Social Justice (1) The socially backward women, Dalit, indigenous people, indigenous nationalities, Madhesi, Tharu, minorities, persons with disabilities, marginalized communities, Muslims, backward classes, gender and sexual minorities, youths, farmers, labourers, oppressed or citizens of backward regions and indigent Khas Arya shall have the right to participate in the State bodies on the basis of inclusive principle. Part 8, Article 84, Composition of House of Representatives (2) The Federal law shall provide that, in fielding candidacy by political parties for the election to the House of Representatives under the proportional electoral system, representation shall be ensured on the basis of a closed list also from women, Dalit, indigenous peoples, Khas Arya, Madhesi, Tharu, Muslims and backward regions, on the basis of population. In so fielding candidacy, regard shall also be had to geography and territorial balance. Key Terms Allegiance : loyalty Aspiration : a desire to achieve something Egalitarian : believing in equality Preamble : introductory explanation Remuneration : a payment Solidarity : mutual agreement and support Note to the teacher: Present a chart on the provisions of inclusion that have been provided by the Interim constitution of Nepal and also make the students discuss about them by giving some examples in the context of Nepal. 112 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Discuss the constitutional provisions about the inclusiveness in Nepal. Identify the various aspects of inclusiveness on which the constitutional provision has focused. 2. Consult with the subject teacher about other efforts made for the inclusiveness in Nepal. Very short answer questions 1. What does proportional representation mean? Mention. 2. Mention the provision set out in the Constitution to respect the lingual differences according to the different caste and community. Short answer questions 1. How has the Constitution of Nepal defined “Nation”? 2. Whatprovision ismadeunder‘RighttoSocialJustice’inpresentconstitution? 3. How can children, aged and disabled people be protected? Explain. Long answer questions 1. How has our Constitution managed to maintain proportional representation on all areas of the state? Explain. 2. What are the efforts that have been made for inclusion in Nepal? SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 113

Lesson CHARACTERISTICS OF OUR CONSTITUTION 6 Introduction to Constitution Constitution is the supreme law of the country. It provisions the structure of the government and divides the state power into various organs of the state. A country is governed as per the provision made in the constitution. The Constitution of Nepal was formulated by the Constituent Assembly and promulgated on 3rd Asoj, 2072 BS. Main characteristics of the Constitution of Nepal 1. Constitution by Struggle and Revolution- This constitution is established in accordance with the people’s will and interest as a result of our historical People’s Movement. 2. Documents of Political Consensus- This constitution is promulgated by the constituent assembly with the political agreement after a long discussion and efforts. 3. Federal, Democratic, Republic Constitution- This constitution has made the provision of federal democratic republic system. According to it, the President is the head of the state. It has also made the provision of three levels of democratic government; Federal, Provincial and Local Level. 4. Sovereignty Vested in People- It has clarified that the sovereignty and state authority of Nepal shall be vested on the people of Nepal. 5. Guarantee of Fundamental Rights and Human Rights- This constitution has fully accepted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It ensures and guarantees the fundamental rights of citizen. 6. Independent Judiciary and Rule of Law- This constitution has adopted the concept of independent judiciary and the rule of law. It states that everyone is equal before the law, nobody shall be deprived from the protection of law, and no person will be punished for an act unpunishable by law. Similarly, it has made the provision of three tiers of courts; Supreme Court, High Court and District Court. 114 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

7. Competitive Multi-Party Democratic System- According to this constitution, we can establish and operate political parties with our own philosophy and ideology and get people’s support. Political parties established within the norms and values of the constitution cannot be banned. 8. Inclusive Constitution- This constitution has mentioned that no one should be discriminated in accordance with their caste, culture, class, lingual, gender and religion. Everybody’s identity should be respected. It emphasizes on the prosperity of the people and community who are socially discriminated and harassed. It also focuses on the social justice. 9. Secularism- This constitution has established Nepal as a Secular country. It also mentions that equality and cooperation between the different religions will be developed for healthy and harmonious social relation. 10. Mixed Electoral System- In the lower house under the federal parliament, the House of Representatives, 165 members are elected through First- Past-The-Post electoral system and 110 members are elected through Proportional electoral system. In case of National Assembly, Single Transferable Voting System has been adopted. Besides these, other characteristics are: 11. Provision of civil liberty, adult franchise, periodic election and complete press freedom, 12. Federal parliament with bicameral system (House of Representatives and National Assembly), 13. Provision of directive principles, policies and responsibilities of the state as guideline for the governance, 14. Provision of restructuring the state and distribution of state power and 15. Constitutional bodies National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission, National Women Commission, National Dalit Commission, National Inclusion Commission, Indigenous Nationalities Commission, Madheshi Commission, Tharu Commission, Muslim Commission are added to empower and address the needs of concerned groups. Note to the teacher: By referring to the Constitution of Nepal as an educational material, make the students discuss about its characteristics as mentioned in the lesson. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 115

Key Terms Consensus : a general agreement Promulgated : declare something officially Sovereignty : supreme authority Vested : granted power and authority to someone Evaluation Exercises Activity Prepare a chart displaying the characteristics of the Constitution of Nepal of our country and display it in the class. Very short answer questions 1. What is constitution? 2. Define Secularism. 3. When was the Constitution of Nepal promulgated? 4. Why does a country need constitution? 5. What do you understand by ‘Sovereignty’? Short answer questions 1. ‘Constitution is the supreme law of the country.’ Justify. 2. Why this constitution is called a federal democratic republic constitution? 3. Explain any three important characteristics of present Constitution of Nepal. 4. Why is the present Constitution known as Inclusive Constitution? 5. What clauses are included in our constitution to make our nation secular? 6. How can you say the present constitution is prepared according to the people’s will and aspiration? Long answer questions 1. Write a letter to your friend explaining any seven characteristics of present Constitution of Nepal. 2. What provision does this constitution have regarding inclusiveness and multiparty system? 116 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Lesson RESPONSIBILITIES OF CITIZENS 7 Democracy is the form of government in which people choose their representatives by adult franchise. It is considered to be the best form of government all over the world. In this form of government, power is vested on people. Citizens are the main source of the country. The people who live permanently in a country are the citizens of that country. It is the responsibility of the state to maintain well being, peace and security of the citizens. It also has some expectations from its citizens. Citizens also have some responsibilities towards their country. Some responsibilities which are to be fulfilled by the citizens are listed below: 1. Respecting and obeying the laws: Everybody is dtbfg sG] b| / dtbfg ug]{ tl/sf equal in the eyes of law. The law treats its citizen Supervisor klxnf] dtkqdf dCto;u°nt] tsu#g]{ of bf];|f] dtkqdf dt;°t] ug{] equally. The Government dtbfg clws[t 3 1st Ballets Counts # of 2nd Ballets 7 formulates certain rules 26 by conforming within the boundaries of the law. It :jl/ts 5fk / 5fkbfgL Get the Second :jl/ts 5fk / 5fkbfgL is the responsibility of the Stamp Stamp on the 2nd Ballet citizens to obey the rules and laws of the country. klxnf] dtkq lbg] k|ltlglwx¿ lrgf] nufpg] 2. Use of Adult Franchise: gfdfjnL le8fpg] 4 58 Drop The 1st Ballet klxnf] dtkq v;fNg] 1 bf];|f] dtkq lng] klxnf] dtkq lng] bf];f| ] dtkq v;fNg] Drop it in! Grab 1st Ballet all paper works here 9 Out find the name, and have aflx/ lg:sg] signature of the voter. Adult Franchise means right to vote to all ue{jtL dlxnf, adult citizens. A right czQm, la/fdL / ckf· to vote comes with the handicapped line responsibility to vote in election. In democracy, people’s representatives formulate the laws. That’s why it is the responsibility of the citizens to vote for the right candidate in the election so that the country can get a capable and visionary leader. 3. Assisting the Government: It is the responsibility of every citizen to lend a hand of co-operation to public officials in their functions. Every citizen SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 117

should try to eradicate corruption and social crime from the society by offering help to the officials concerned. Since the leaders are chosen by the people’s vote it becomes the people’s responsibility to assist the government. 4. To pay taxes: The government collects tax from the people and uses it for the development of the country. Hence, it is the responsibility of the citizens to pay tax to the government on time. They should willingly and honestly pay the taxes levied by the government. 5. To participate in the development activities: It is the responsibility of the citizens to identify the needs of development in their local areas and make the government understand these needs through their representatives. It is also the responsibility of good citizens to participate in the development programs through various means. 6. To respect the rights and opinions of others: Every citizen should enjoy their rights without violating and disturbing the rights of others. To respect the rights of others is the responsibility of a citizen. 7. To warn about the violation of national interest: No organization whether national or International should get involved into activities that might hamper the country’s integrity self respect. The citizens should be aware and keep surveillance of such activities. 8. To be aware about the contemporary events: Every citizen should be aware and alert about the contemporary issues and events of the country. They should express their constructive opinions for the betterment of the country. 9. To use and care of the public property: Public property is the property of citizens. Every citizen has the right to use these properties. Similarly they also have the responsibility to take care and protect those properties. Key Terms Conforming : obey rules and laws Hamper : to slow the movement, progress, or action of someone or something Levy : impose or charge tax, fee etc Surveillance : close observation Note to the teacher: Compare between the responsibilities that a students should perform at school with the responsibilities a good citizen should perform and make the students discuss about it. Encourage the students to perform their responsibilities as good citizens and make them understand the importance of their responsibilities. 118 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Evaluation Exercises Activity Organize an oratory on ‘it is the responsibility of the citizen to make the nation aware about the social evils prevailing in the society’. Take help from your teacher. Very short answer questions 1. What is democracy? 2. Who are citizens? 3. Why is it important to fulfil our responsibility? 4. What happens if we don’t pay tax to the country? Short answer questions 1. Why democracy is considered the best governing system? Give your views. 2. What are the responsibilities of the state towards its citizens and what does it expect in return from the citizens? Mention in points. 3. How do you respect the rights of others? List the points. 4. ‘Right without responsibility means anarchy.’ Justify. Long answer questions 1. ‘In every election we vote for a candidate expecting that s/he would bring some positive changes in the Nation. But after each election none of the candidates stick to their promises and everything goes in vain.’ This has become the thought of many people in our community. How would you motivate and explain to such people the importance of an election and why it is important to vote? Discuss in class and come up with some plans. 2. What do you mean by the responsibilities of citizens? Explain any seven responsibilities of citizens in brief. 3. What suggestions would you like to give to the citizens who don’t perform their duty properly? SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 119

Lesson LEGISLATURE 8 Federal Parliament There are three major organs of the state. They are Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. These organs exercise different powers and functions. Legislature is the law making organ of the state. Its role in democracy is immense because it consists of people’s representatives who exercise sovereign functions. Legislature formulates law which is considered the most important task of the country. Executive makes rules and regulations on the basis of laws made by the legislature. Legislature identifies the various problems of the country and makes necessary acts and laws to solve those problems. The country functions on the basis of those laws. Legislature makes laws by considering each and every aspects of the country like region, class, caste, race, gender, and citizen’s welfare and prosperity. The acts and laws made by the Legislature have to be beneficial to the citizens of the country. Constitution of Nepal, Part 8 has mentioned about the Federal Legislature. Federal legislature is also called Federal Parliament. It consists of two houses: House of Representatives and National Assembly. The Legislature consisting of two houses is called Bicameral Legislature. 120 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Composition of House of Representatives The House of Representatives is the lower house of federal parliament. It is composed of 275 members. Among them, 165 members are elected through the first-past-the post (FPTP) electoral system consisting of one member from each of the one hundred and sixty five electoral constituencies formed by dividing Nepal into 165 constituencies. Similarly, one hundred and ten members are elected from the proportional representation electoral system where eligible voters vote for parties, while treating the whole country as a single electoral constituency. For proportional representation, the political parties prepare a close list of women, Dalits, Adibasi Janajati, Khas Arya, Madhesi, Tharu, Muslim and backward regions according to federal law. Except when dissolved earlier, the term of House of Representatives shall be five years. There shall be a speaker and deputy speaker for the purpose of conducting meetings of House of Representatives. While electing speaker and deputy speaker, either speaker or deputy speaker should be a woman and belong to different parties. Composition of National Assembly National Assembly is the permanent house in federal parliament. It is composed of fifty-nine members. Fifty six members (eight members from each Province) are elected from an Electoral College comprising the members of Provincial Assembly and Chairpersons and Vice-chairpersons of Rural Municipalities and Mayors and Deputy Mayors of Municipalities, with different weights of votes for each, with eight members from each province, including at least three women, one Dalit, one person with disability or minority. Three members, including at least one woman are to be nominated by the President on the recommendation of Government of Nepal. The tenure of members of National Assembly shall be six years. In every two, the tenure of one-third members gets expired. Qualification to be the candidate for the member of Federal Parliament Persons who meet the following requirement are considered eligible to be the candidate for the member of federal parliament: SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 121

1. Being a citizen of Nepal, 2. Having completed the age of twenty five years, for the House of Representatives, and the age of thirty five years, for the National Assembly, 3. Not having been convicted of a criminal offense involving moral turpitude, 4. Not being disqualified by any Federal law, and 5. Not holding any office of profit. Formulation of Law The draft proposal for law formulation is presented in the federal parliament. This draft of law is called bill. The bill can be presented in any house by the members of parliament but money bill can be presented only in the House of Representatives. When the bill is agreed upon by the majority of the members of the house, then only it is considered to be passed. The bill passed by one house and after authenticated by the Speaker or Chairperson of the federal parliament is sent to the next house as soon as possible. If the bill is passed also by that house, then it is presented to the president who certifies it. Then that bill becomes a law. The main functions of the Legislature: 1. To formulate the laws of the country, 2. To elect the Prime Minister and form the government, 3. To control the economic activities, 4. To surveillance and control the functions of the government, 5. To amend the constitution if needed. The Legislature is different in different countries according to their need and requirement. According to the population, area, geographical condition, etc, number of member needed and working method of legislature is determined. These conditions might vary in different countries. In Nepal, the provision to be the members of the Legislature is either by directly getting elected by the people or by the proportional vote of the political parties. Key Terms Bicameral : with two law making assemblies Sovereign : with complete power Turpitude : extreme immorality Note to the teacher: Consider the classroom to be a mini parliament and make the students enact the role of parliamentary practice. 122 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Make a list of the political parties and members who have represented your district in the Federal Parliament and Provincial Assembly and present in class. 2. Consider your class to be a House of Representative and choose the Speaker and Deputy Speaker and formulate some class rules. Very short answer questions 1. What is Legislature? 2. What is the main function of Legislature? 3. Name the upper and lower house of federal parliament? 4. How many members are there in The House of Representatives? 5. Write any two qualifications to be the candidate for the member of federal parliament. Short answer questions 1. What points does a Legislature have to consider while formulating laws? 2. Mention the differences between law and rules? 3. List down the functions of the Legislature. 4. What is bill? How does it become a law? Long answer questions 1. What do you mean by Bicameral Legislature? Write the formation process of House of Representatives and National Assembly. 2. Describe the important functions of Legislature in brief. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 123

Lesson EXECUTIVE 9 Singha Durbar Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers Executive is the law implementing body of state. The Council of Ministers or government is the executive body of a country. Executive makes programs and policies and executes the law passed by the Legislature. In a broad sense, executive is taken as the supreme administrative body of the country. There is a provision of Federal Executive in part 7 of the Constitution of Nepal. According to it, the form of governance is multi-party, competitive, federal, democratic, republican, parliamentary system based on plurality. The executive power of Nepal is vested on the Council of Ministers in accordance with constitution and law. The Council of Ministers is responsible for issuing general directives, controlling and regulating the governance of Nepal. The entire works relating to the Federal Executive of Nepal is done in the name of Government of Nepal. At present there are three levels President Bidya Devi Bhandari administering oath of office and secrecy to PM K. P. Sharma Oli of government/executive; federal 124 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

government at federal level, province government at provincial level and local government at local level. Formation of Federal Executive/Council of Minister According to the Constitution of Nepal, the Council of Ministers is formed in the following ways: After the announcement of the final result of the election of House of Representatives, the President appoints the parliamentary party leader of the political party with the majority seat in the House of Representatives as a Prime Minister and Council of Ministers is formed in his/her chairmanship. If no political party gets a clear majority in the election of House of Representatives, president appoints the member of House of Representatives as Prime Minister who can have the majority with the support of two or more political parties represented in the House of Representative. Such Prime Minister should get the vote of confidence of the House of Representatives within 30 days of his/her appointment. If the Prime Minister fails to receive the vote of confidence within 30 days, again the President appoints the leader of the party with the highest number of members in the House of Representative as Prime Minister. The Prime Minister appointed in this condition also should get the vote of confidence within 30 days of his/her appointment. If s/he fails to receive the vote of confidence, the President appoints a member of House of Representatives as Prime Minister who produces bases that he/she may win the vote of confidence of the House of Representatives within 30 days. If the Prime Minister appointed in this way fails to get the vote of confidence or if any member fails to be appointed as Prime Minister, the President, on the recommendation of Prime Minister dissolve the House of Representatives and fix a date to conduct another election within 6 months. When the appointment of Prime Minister is completed on any condition mentioned above, the President forms a Council of Ministers consisting of members not exceeding 25 in number from among the members of federal parliament on the basis of the principle of inclusion. There is also the provision that the President may appoint deputy Prime Minister, Minister, Minister of State, Assistant Minister who is not a member of federal parliament but the Minister appointed in this condition should receive the membership of the federal parliament within six months of taking oath of office. The Prime Minister and Ministers should be collectively accountable to the federal parliament and a Minister should be personally responsible to the Prime Minister for the works of his/her ministry and also to the federal parliament. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 125

Functions of the Executive There are lots of works that the executive has to perform. It is the duty of the executive to maintain law and order in the country. Executive has to fulfill the basic needs of the people like food, shelter, clothing, education and health services. The following are the major functions of the executive: To implement the law passed by the Legislature and also introduce bill to the parliament for appropriate law To direct, control and operate the governance To present the budget in the parliament and implement it after the approval of the parliament To protect the country from foreign invasion and encroachment To sign treaties and make good diplomatic relations, depute ambassadors to foreign countries To impose and collect tax and propose new tax in national level To withdraw necessary fund from the national treasury and provide necessary loan to the states To conduct and run the national level developmental works such as; health, education, drinking water, tourism, transportation, etc Formation of Provincial Executive/Council of Ministers According to the Constitution of Nepal, the Provincial Chief appoints the leader of the parliamentary party with majority in the Provincial Assembly as the Chief Minister and the Provincial Council of Ministers is formed under the chairpersonship of the Chief Minister. Provincial Chief, on the recommendation of the Chief Minister, constitutes provincial Council of Minister from among the members of the Provincial Assembly on the basis of the principle of inclusion and not exceeding more than 20% of the total members of the Provincial Assembly. Provincial Council of Ministers is responsible for issuing general directives, controlling and regulating the administration of the province. Similarly, the executive power of local level is exercised by Rural Municipal Executive or Municipal Executive. It is responsible for issuing general directives, controlling and regulating the administration of Rural Municipality and Municipality. Note to the teacher: Teach this lesson in the form of a role play. 126 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Key Terms Approval : the action of accepting something Execute : to put into an action Invasion : to enter a country by force by an army of another country with the purpose of conquering it Vote of confidence : vote that approves present leadership Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Find out the activities performed by the government in your community, prepare a report and share it in class. 2. Write down the names of the government offices that you have heard of and its functions. Very short answer questions 1. What is executive? 2. Who exercises the executive power in Nepal? 3. What is the form of governance according to the Constitution of Nepal? 4. What do you understand by vote of confidence? 5. Who are the Prime Minister and Ministers accountable to? 6. Write one difference between federal executive and provincial executive. Short answer questions 1. Write the importance of executive in a paragraph. 2. How can you help the government personally? Write in points. 3. What programmes would you make to develop the country if you became the Prime Minister of Nepal? 4. How does the government implement law? Mention. 5. How is the provincial executive formed according to the Constitution of Nepal? 6. Prepare an editorial for a daily newspaper on “The Importance of Executive”. Long answer questions 1. What are the main functions of the executive? List them. 2. How is the federal executive formed according to the Constitution of Nepal? SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 127

Lesson JUDICIARY 10 Judiciary is one of the most important organs of the state. It gives equal justice to people using prevailing laws. Legislature formulates law; Executive executes the law whereas Judiciary interprets the law and punishes the law breakers. Judiciary is an authentic organ to interpret the constitution. Judiciary protects the fundamental rights of people and maintains the rule of law in the country. Judiciary provides justice to the oppressed group or individual whether it is done by the government or any individual group. Democracy becomes effective and successful when Judiciary is powerful and impartial because Judiciary is the protector of rights and interests of common citizens. The concept of democratic state with rule of law cannot be materialized without strong Judicial System. The Judiciary plays an important role to make democracy successful and prosperous. For this, the Judiciary must be independent, impartial and competent. There is the provision of Judiciary in part 11 of the Constitution of Nepal. According to the article 126 of the constitution, the judicial power of Nepal Supreme Court 128 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

is exercised by the courts and other judicial institutions in accordance with the provision of Constitution, other laws and recognized principles of justice. There are three tiers of court in Nepal. They are: Supreme Court, High Court and District Court. In addition to these courts, other institutions may be established according to the need to adopt other means of alternatives of dispute resolution or judicial bodies to adjudicate cases at the local level as per the law. a. Supreme Court Supreme Court is the highest court in the judicial system of Nepal. All the courts and judicial institutions are subordinate to it. Supreme Court is the Court of Record in the sense that its decisions are recorded for perpetual memory and testimony. The Supreme Court may inspect, supervise and give necessary directives to its subordinate courts and judicial bodies. In addition to the Chief Justice, there are maximum 20 judges in the Supreme Court. Appointment: President appoints Chief Justice on the recommendation of Constitutional Council and judges of the Supreme Court on the recommendation of Judicial Council. Qualification and Tenure of Chief Justice: Any person who has served as a Judge of the Supreme Court for at least three years is qualified for appointment as the Chief Justice. The tenure of office of the Chief Justice is six years from the date of appointment and retires at the age of 65 years. Qualification of Judges of Supreme Court: 1. Any citizen of Nepal who has obtained a bachelor’s degree in law and served as the Chief Judge or a Judge of a High Court for at least five years or 2. who has obtained a bachelor’s degree in law and constantly practiced law as a senior advocate or advocate for at least fifteen years or 3. who is a distinguished jurist having constantly worked for at least fifteen years in the judicial or legal field or 4. who has served in the post of Gazetted first class or a higher post of the Judicial Service for at least twelve years SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 129

b. High Court There is a High Court in every province. In addition to the Chief Judge, every High Court has judges in the number as the provision made in the Federal law. Appointment: The Chief Judge and Judges of the High Court are appointed by the Chief Justice on the recommendation of Judicial Council. Qualification of Chief Judge and Judges of High Court 1. Any citizen of Nepal who has obtained a bachelor’s degree in law and served as a Judge of a District Court for at least five years or 2. who has obtained a bachelor’s High Court Patan, Lalitpur degree in law and constantly practiced law as a senior advocate or 3. advocate for at least ten years or who has constantly been engaged in the teaching or research of law or in any other field related to law or justice for at least ten years or 4. who has served in the post of at least first class gazetted officer of the Judicial Service for at least five years c. District Court There is a district court in each district of Nepal. The local level judicial institutions remain under the District court. The district court may inspect, supervise and issue necessary instructions to its sub- ordinate judicial institutions. Kaski District Court, Pokhara 130 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Appointment: The Judges of District Court are appointed by the Chief Justice on the recommendation of the Judicial Council. Qualification: 1. Graduated in law and worked at least for three years as a second class gazetted officer in judicial service or 2. Graduated in law and worked as an advocate at least for eight years or have constantly been engaged in the teaching or research of law or served in any other field of law or justice for at least eight years. Functions of the Judiciary The Judiciary is an independent organ. Everyone must obey the orders issued by Judiciary whether it is a common person, organization, or government. The main functions of the Judiciary are: To give equal justice to the people by using the prevailing law, To protect people’s fundamental rights, and freedom, To punish the guilty and save the innocent as per the law, To interpret the constitution if there is any controversy and clarify the concept of law, To advice and counsel the Legislative and Executive bodies on the various complicated legal curiosities and problems, To look after the implementation of law. Key Terms Adjudicate : decide legally Authentic : legally valid Impartial : not biased Inspect : look at something critically Interpret : find meaning of something Materialize : become real Note to the teacher: Conduct a role play in class where a lawyer is fighting for justice for his client. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 131

Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Look at the picture and discuss about it in class. Note what does this picture indicate and present it in class. 2. What types of cases are filed in the district court of your district? Ask your parents and present in class. 3. Find out the meaning of the words given below in a dictionary and discuss them in class: Lawyer, Heir, Date, Session, Hearing, Opposition, Appeal, Writ, Decision Very short answer questions 1. What is Judiciary? 2. What is the main function of Judiciary? 3. How many High Courts are there in Nepal? 4. Who is the present Chief Justice of Nepal? 5. How are the judges of District Courts appointed? 6. Who exercises the judicial power in Nepal? Short answer questions 1. How are the Chief Justice and the other Judges of the Supreme Court appointed? Mention it. 2. What do you mean by Court of Record? 3. How many tiers of courts are there and what are they? Mention. 4. What are the main functions of Judiciary? List them. Long answer questions 1. Why is Judiciary important? Describe any three function of it. 2. Write the qualifications and the process of appointment of the judges of Supreme Court. 132 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Review Exercise 1. Answer the following questions. a) How does social rule help in managing the society? b) What do you mean by human rights? c) Why the women are still lagging behind? d) How do citizens fulfil their responsibilities? e) List down the functions of the executives. 2. Prepare a chart about the functions of the Judiciary and present in class. 3. Prepare a dialogue stating that the house rule is also a form of social rule. 4. Judiciary must be kept far from the politics. Why? 5. Conduct a debate on the topic ‘Inclusion is the basis of National Unity’. 6. Go around your community and visit any five houses and see if the members of these household have been performing their responsibility according to the table below. List them and present it in class. Number of houses: Name of owner: Condition of fulfillment of responsibility S.N. Responsibility Regular Irregular Work never work work done 1. To follow law 2. To vote 3. To pay tax To participate in 4. developmental work 5. To protect public property SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 133

Unit 5 OUR EARTH Learning Achievements Introduce and explain about the effects of latitude, longitude, distance, weather, climate, etc. Explain the season change and its effects, Mention the elements of climate change and the preventive measures that are needed to be adopted in case of earthquake and storm, Introduce the districts and provinces of Nepal and be able to do activities regarding the map, and Explain the physical structure, economic and social life of the people of North America, South America and Africa. And fill the geographical facts on the map. 134 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Lesson CHANGE OF SEASON 1 Asha and Nita are going to school. They are wearing sweaters, mufflers and gloves. Asha rubs her hands together and says: Asha : It is very cold today, isn’t it? Nita : Yes, it is. I don’t like the month of Poush and Magh. During these months winter is at its peak, no matter how many layers of clothes I put on it can’t actually keep me warm. Asha : But during Baishakh/Jestha the temperature is intolerable. I only like the weather during Dashain and Tihar because it’s pleasant. It is too windy during Chaitra and Baisakh. Nita : The change in season really surprises me. Do you know why this happens? Asha : No, I don’t. Let’s ask Pramila Ma’am. Both Girls : Good morning Pramila Ma’am Miss Pramila : Good morning girls. Asha : Ma’am, can you please explain the reason why we feel very cold during some months and very hot in some others? Pramila Ma’am : Sure, we feel hot and cold due to the change in season. Season change in Northern Hemisphere 66½° Earth Summer Season March 21 Spring Season Sun C B A June 21 Sun December 22 Autumn Season Winter Season D September 23 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 135

Earth revolves around the sun on its own path and rotates on its own axis. The earth’s axis of rotation is tilted at an angle of 66½°.During this process, sometimes the Northern Hemisphere faces the sun and sometimes the Southern Hemisphere faces the sun. Due to this reason, when some months are warmer in northern hemisphere it is cold in southern hemisphere and vice versa. On 22nd December the position of the sun is on ‘A’ of the tropic of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere. At this time, the rays of the sun falls slanted on the Northern Hemisphere thus, the weather is cold during that time in northern face. So it is winter season. Nita : Is December 22nd the shortest day of the year? Pramila Ma’am : Yes, you are absolutely right. Now let me tell you about the spring season. The sun is not visible from the Northern Polar Region for four months. Slowly in three months’ time (22nd December - 21st March), the Sun’s position shifts from position ‘A’ to position ‘B’. This period is known as the spring season. During this time, the weather starts to be warm but it’s not yet summer. During this time, the Sun faces the equator thus the rays of the Sun falls equally on both the hemisphere. Asha : Now tell us about summer season. Pramila Ma’am : Ok, listen. It takes three months (21st March - 21st June), for the Sun to move from the position ‘B’ to the position ‘C’. This season is known as the Summer Season. In this period, the heat in the Northern Hemisphere starts to increase. During this time, the Sun faces the Tropic of Cancer in the Northern Hemisphere and hence it is Summer Season. Then slowly the Sun moves from the position ‘C’ to the position ‘D’, this period is autumn season. During this season the heat of the summer and the Monsoon rain decreases but it is not yet winter. During this time, the Sun again faces to the Equator and so the rays of the Sun falls equally on both the hemisphere. The length of the day and night is equal during that time. The season in the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere is opposite to each other. Now, let us go to the class and I will show you the diagram on Google Earth. Both girls : Thank you Ma’am. Note to the teacher: Conduct experimental activities to make the concept of season change clear to the students. Discuss the effects occurring due to season change based upon the students’ experiences. 136 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Key Terms Axis : an imaginary straight line around which an object such as Earth rotates Intolerable : unbearable Peak : the highest point Slanted : not straight but sloping Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Place a small lamp on a table in a dark room. Rotate the globe facing the light, notice where does the light hit the globe in direct rays. Discuss this phenomenon and understand how season changes and let the students prepare a report. 2. The picture in the lesson shows the change in season in the Northern Hemisphere. In a similar manner draw a picture showing the change in season in the Southern Hemisphere. Very short answer questions 1. What is season change? 2. What is an axis? 3. Which is the shortest day of the year? 4. How much is the Earth’s axis tilted? 5. When is there equal length of day and night all over the world? 6. Which are the hottest and coldest months in the Northern Hemisphere? Short answer questions 1. Draw the diagram to show the season change in Northern Hemisphere. 2. What are the reasons for change in season? 3. The Sun faces the Equator twice in a year. How is the length of the day and night during that time and why? SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 137

Lesson WEATHER AND CLIMATE 2 Weather The state of atmosphere with respect to wind, temperature, cloudiness, humidity, air pressure, etc is known as weather. Weather is the day-to-day atmospheric conditions of a particular place. For example: It is raining in school today or it was sunny at home yesterday. We always know what the weather was like in the past but it is very difficult to predict how the weather will be in the future. To predict the weather we need to study the temperature of the wind, pressure and humidity as well as the speed of the wind. It is not hundred percent sure that prediction done in this manner is accurate. Predicting the weather is known as weather forecast. The table below shows the temperature and the rate of rainfall in different cities of the country. Dhankuta Rajbiraj Kathmandu Pokhara Dang Kailali Kalikot Temperature (°c) 15° 27° 18° 22° 25° 22° 15° 4 15 0 Rainfall (mm) 00 0 12 The weather is all around us, all the time. It is an important part of our lives and one that we cannot control. Instead, the weather often controls how and where we live, what we do, what we wear and what we eat. A person who studies the 138 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

weather is called a meteorologist. Weather predictions or forecasts are made by a meteorologist who you see on television. Weather changes within a short period of time and is uncertain. The effect of weather is seen or felt only within a small area at a certain time. If the weather you are experiencing is cloudy then a place a little farther away from you might be experiencing a sunny weather or rainfall. In a matter of time, the Sun might be covered in cloud and wind may start to blow. When the temperature of a place increases, the air becomes hot and it rises up rapidly, then, the wind pressure in that place becomes low. The mass of air from the surrounding areas then moves rapidly towards that area and may cause a storm. If the wind that carries cloud flows in that direction then it may cause rainfall or cloudy weather. So this is how the wind’s temperature, pressure, water vapour and the change in the cloud brings about change in the weather. Climate Have you ever wondered why a particular area of the world is desert, while other a grassland and another a rainforest? Why there are different forests and deserts, and different types of lifestyle in each area? The answer is climate. The average condition of the weather of a particular place throughout the year is known as climate. If we learn about different climates around the world, deserts have a hot and dry climate while the Antarctic region has a very cold and dry climate. Nepal’s climate is monsoon type. In summer, it is generally hot with rainfall and it is cold and dry in winter. It is not necessary that the temperature in summer is constant every year but the average temperature, rainfall and humidity is somewhat similar. Normally, the condition of the climate is similar every year. The climate covers a larger area and it only changes in a very long run. Two of the most important factors determining an area’s climate are air temperature and rainfall. Note to the teacher: Conduct experimental activities to make the concept of season change clear to the students. Discuss the effects occurring due to season change based upon the students’ experiences. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 139

Key Terms Accurate : correct in all details Humidity : a quantity representing the amount of water vapour in the atmosphere Precipitation : rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to or condenses on the ground Predict : forecast Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Attach a thermometer on the wall of your classroom and measure the temperature after the end of each class and find out the average temperature. Continue to do this for a week and find out which was the coldest and the hottest day of that week. Show the temperature in a chart. If the temperature at 12 or 1 o’clock in the monsoon season suddenly increases then there is a high chance for rain. Try to forecast the temperature and practice doing so 2. Measuring the amount of rainfall in your area yourself: Take a transparent plastic bottle. Cut the upper half of the bottle to make a funnel with it. Insert that funnel into the lower half of the bottle. Attach a scale on the outer part with the help of a cello tape. Now when it rains, keep that bottle outside 1 meter above the ground. After the rain stops, measure the amount of rain collected in it with the help of the scale (in centimetres) attached to it. Very short answer questions 1. Define weather. 2. What is meant by weather forecast? 3. Define climate. 4. What is precipitation? 5. Who is called meteorologist? 6. List out the components of weather. Short answer questions 1. Write the difference between weather and climate. 2. Which type of climate do you prefer to live in? Why? Give reasons. 3. ‘Weather is variable condition of the atmosphere.’ Justify the statement with example. 140 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Lesson FACTORS AFFECTING TEMPERATURE 3 Polar Temperate Arid Tropical Mediterranean Mountains The climate all over the world is different. It’s very hot in some places and very cold in others. In some places, summers are hot and winters are cold while, there are some places where the temperature is similar throughout the year. There are a lot of factors which determine the climate of the World. The factors affecting the temperature of the world are: latitude, altitude, distance from the sea, ocean currents, etc. Latitude Equator or 0° latitude receives direct rays from the Sun throughout the year. This results in higher temperature there. Therefore, the region that is 23½° north and 23½° south from the equator, known as the Tropical Zone are warmer. Places that lie in this zone are warmer than places at the poles. Temperature decreases as we go towards the north or the south of the equator. This variation in temperature is due to the curvature of the Earth and the angle of the Sun rays reaching the Earth’s surface. The northern and southern parts of the earth’s surface receive slanted rays which cannot heat the surface like the direct rays at the equator. Thus, it is SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 141

cold in winter and hot in summer between the latitude of 23½° to 66½°. This climatic zone is known as the Temperate Zone. 66 12°N 90°N Polar Zone Temperate Zone 23 12°N Tropical Zone Cold Air 0° Tropical Zone 23 12°S High Temperature Temperate Zone 66 12°S Polar Zone 90°S The regions above 66½° latitude in both northern and southern part of the earth are known as the polar zones. At the poles, the Sun is lower in the sky but the Sun rays are spread over a wider area resulting in colder temperatures. The temperature is very cold throughout the year in these regions. The temperature drops down to less than 0°. This climatic is known as Frigid Zone. Altitude Altitude is an important factor determining the temperature of a place. Temperature decreases by 1° Celsius with the increase of every 165 m in altitude. This means that the mountain environment is much colder than low lying areas. In addition, the density of air in the higher altitude is lower than the lowlands. The higher the density, more heat from the Sun is absorbed thus, temperature is lower in higher altitude as than in the lower areas. Distance from the sea Water (Liquid) and land (Solid) have different heating and cooling characteristics. Water takes more time to warm up and is able to retain the heat longer than land does. Due to this the climate in the coastal areas is neither too hot nor too cold, whereas, the climate far from the coastal areas is very hot in the day and very cold at night. During the day, the rays of the Sun fall equally on sea and on land. The land gets heated faster but the sea is still cool so the cool breeze blows from sea to 142 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

land which is hot with low air pressure. This is the reason why the cool breeze coming from the sea does not allow the land near the sea to be too hot. This breeze that blows from sea to land is known as sea breeze. During the night, it is just opposite. The land becomes cold but the sea is still warm as it can retain the heat absorbed during the day, so the cold air from the land blows towards the sea. This breeze that blows from interior of the land to sea is known as land breeze. Land breeze does not allow places near the sea to be cool as it is a warm breeze. Areas which are far from the sea are not affected by the sea breeze and land breeze so they are very hot during the day and very cold during the night. Ocean Currents Ocean currents affect the climate of coastal areas. Warm currents tend to raise winter temperatures and colder currents lower summer temperatures. Warm air rising Warm air rising Cool sea breeze moving towards land Cool land breeze moving towards sea Warm sea surface Sea Breeze Land Breeze The ocean water gets affected by the motion and the temperature of the air blowing over it. It flows along the coastal areas like a river. This is known as the ocean current. Ocean currents flowing from equatorial region is warm as it is always hot in the equator, while the current flowing from the polar region is cold due to the lower temperature in the polar region. This is the reason why there is a warm climate in the coastal areas where the warm current flows. Similarly, the climate of the coastal areas is cold where the cold current flows. Note to the teacher: Let the students discuss their experiences about temperature. Give various examples and help them to identify the heat zone in the world’s map. Conduct experimental activities to show the elements affecting temperature. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 143

Key Terms Curvature : the fact of being curved or the degree to which something is curved Equator : the imaginary great circle around the earth’s surface Pole : the extreme point of the Earth’s surface, North Pole and South Pole Retain : absorb and continue to hold a substance Evaluation Exercises Activity Thermometer 1 Thermometer 2 Thermometer 3 Heater Take a football or volleyball. Attach three thermometers to it as shown in the picture. Place it on the Sun or in front of a heater for some time. In which thermometer does the temperature increase rapidly? Very short answer questions 1. List four factors that affect the climate of a place. 2. What is the latitudinal location of Tropical Zone? 3. Why do we feel hot throughout the year in equatorial region? Write in a sentence. 4. Why do we feel cold when we go to the high altitude? 5. The places near the sea are cooler than the places farther away from the sea. Why? 6. What is the main factor affecting the climate of Nepal? Short answer questions 1. Write down the factors affecting the temperature. Explain any one of them. 2. How does distance from the sea affect the climate of a place? Describe with suitable diagram. 3. How latitude and altitude affect the climate? Explain with the help of neat diagram. 144 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Lesson CLIMATE CHANGE 4 Introduction Nowadays, the topic “Climatic Change” and “Global Warming” have become the subjects of discussion in Mass Medias. The whole world is talking about it and Nepal has been very late in discussing this topic. The discovery of coal, mineral, oil and gas led to the second industrial revolution. Scientists were eager to find out what happens when the substances like coal and oil are burnt and how does it affect the environment. The study had begun in the year 1859 AD, a scientist named John Tyndall discovered about the green house effect. Meaning of Climate Change Climate change refers to any significant change in the climate lasting for an extended period of time. In other words, climate change includes major changes in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, etc that occur over several decades or longer. The climate depends on human beings, animals, plants and geographical system. If there is an imbalance or instability in any of those factors then we can say that climatic change is taking place. Symptoms of Climate Change If the monsoon rain starts on Jestha instead of Asar or it doesn’t start at all till Shrawan, if it is still summer even when it is already Mangshir or if the winter goes on till Baisakh, if the Terai region suffers from cold wave or the Himalaya region gets heavy rainfall, these are all indicators of climatic change. The change in weather is not considered climatic change. Causes of Climate Change The main reason for climatic change is the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This gas increases the green house effect and increases SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 145

the temperature of the Earth which creates an imbalance on the climate. Greenhouse gases act like a blanket around the Earth, trapping energy in the atmosphere and causing it to warm. The buildup of greenhouse gases can change Earth’s climate and result in dangerous effects to human health and welfare and to ecosystems. It is our responsibility to maintain the balance. If we maintain discipline then we can prevent it from happening. In 1830’s, there was only 281 ppm (parts per million) carbon dioxide particles mixed with the air particles. But in 2010 AD, it has increased to 390 ppm. The temperature of the earth has increased by 0.75 degree Celsius compared to the temperature in 1901 AD. If the temperature keeps on increasing at this rate then Nepal’s temperature will increase by 1.4 degree in 2030 AD and 3 to 6.3 degrees in 2090 AD. In a few years time, the snow from our mountain tops will melt leaving only the bare mountains. The civilizations near the sea will drown. That is the reason why we should control the gases which are causing the temperature of the earth to increase. Effects of climate change in Nepal 1. The glaciers are rapidly melting. 2. The rapid rise in temperature, 3. Erratic rainfalls and increase in frequency of extreme events such as floods and drought. 4. It affects the major sectors of economy such as agriculture, tourism, hydropower, etc. 5. It affects in the biodiversity of Nepal. Climate change is already becoming dangerous for our survival and we have to do everything possible to prevent it. The globally accepted strategy to control disastrous impacts of climate change is adaptation and mitigation. For a least developed country such as Nepal, adaptation should be the priority. The Himalayas of Nepal portends the fact that it is the prime target country of climate change impacts. It’s time to play a leadership role in showing political will and playing a responsible role in global events. Note to the teacher: Now the students are familiar with the phenomenon of climate change from the previous classes. Start a discussion based on the prior knowledge gained by the students. Make them survey and interact with the people of their community to find out the effects of climate change. 146 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Key Terms Climate change : change in global weather patterns Erratic : not even or regular in pattern or movement Greenhouse effect : warming of Earth’s atmosphere Greenhouse gas : gas that absorbs radiation Evaluation Exercises Activities 1. Prepare a chart showing the reasons of climate change and exhibit it in your school. 2. Study the following text and answer the following questions: Cause of Chronic Diarrhoea: Climate Change Nepal Health Research Council recently conducted a research in Jhapa District on the impacts of malaria, Kalazar and diarrhoea caused by increasing temperature due to change in climate. The study has shown that the temperature is increasing and the rainfall is decreasing. The temperature has increased by 0.70°C from 1998 AD to 2008 AD. In Asadh and Shrawan of 1989 AD, the number of people affected by diarrhoea was 1,000, and by malaria was 200. By 2008 AD, this number increased to 3,000 and 400 respectively. This concluded that these diseases and illnesses were connected with the increase in temperature and decrease in the rainfall. The characteristics of temperature and rainfall are connected with the diversity of climate change. Due to the increase in the diversity of climate change, the occurrence of diarrhoea may result and that can make people suffer time and again. a) What are the effects of climate change? b) What are the diseases caused by climate change? c) What types of feelings do you have after reading the above text? Write in a short paragraph. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 147

Very short answer questions 1. What do you mean by Climate Change? 2. Who discovered about the green house effect and when? 3. Define green house effect. 4. What is the main cause of climate change? 5. What is the relation between the climate change and sea level rise? 6. By how much degree temperature of Nepal will increase by 2030 AD and 2090 AD? Short answer questions 1. List down the causes and the effects of climatic change. 2. Write a letter to your friend mentioning the ideas to reduce the temperature of the world. 3. What effects of climate change have been noticed in Nepal? Mention. 4. Who are responsible for Climate Change and how? 5. Identify the following effects of climate change and write the measures to prevent such negative effects of Climate Change? 148 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8

Lesson IMPACTS OF LONGITUDE AND LATITUDE 5 Latitude An imaginary line which is equidistant North Pole 60° C from the North Pole and South Pole D and divides the Earth into Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere E 90° is called the Equator. Latitude is the 60° F 30° B 30° angular distance north or south of the Earth HCenter 0° A equator. It is the angle that measures G 0° how far north or south a location is from the equator in degrees. In the given picture, the lines AH and GH are drawn Equator from the equator to the centre of Earth. 90° The semi-circular line from G to A is the South Pole Equator. At point A, both the straight line from the centre of Earth (AH) and the Equator line cross each other. The equator represents the 0° latitude and goes on increasing as we move towards both poles. At point B, it makes an angle of 30° from the centre of Earth (H). Thus, the latitude of the location B is 30° north. Impacts and uses of Latitude: a) World climate: The temperature decreases with the increase at latitude. Thus, countries lying in higher latitudes are colder than countries lying at lower latitudes. b) Length of day and night: At the equator, the duration of day and night is always same. As the latitude increases, there is a difference in the duration of day and night. c) In map making: Latitudes helps to show where a place is located in a map. Note to the teacher: Discuss about longitude and latitude based on the prior knowledge gained by the students. SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8 149

Longitude The imaginary lines that join the North Pole and the South Pole are longitudinal lines. These lines are semi-circular and run vertically around the Earth. Longitude is the angular distance east or west of Prime (Greenwich) Meridian. Longitudes are also called meridians, and measure how far east or South Pole west an object is from the Prime Meridian, a line of longitude which runs between the poles and through Greenwich, England. The Prime Meridian divides the Earth into Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Longitude increases as you move from the Prime Meridian (0°) towards east (0° to 180°) and west (0° to 180°). The lines of longitudes meet at 180°. In the given picture the lines AI is the Prime Meridian. Taking the base of AH, the line BH makes the angle of 30°. Thus the longitude of the point of B is 30°. The line of longitude exactly opposite to the Prime Meridian is 180° and is also known as the International Data Line. Impacts and uses of longitude: a) The change in longitude has effects on time. It is why when Sun is over the head at some places, it is still dark midnight at other places. At each 15° of longitude, there is the time difference of one hour. Time at some eastern longitude places is faster whereas that of the western is slow. Time is determined on the basis of longitude. b) The change occurs in day and date when the International Date Line is crossed. Between the left and right of that line, there is the difference of 24 hours. Antipode Earth Any point on the surface of Earth which lies just opposite to the other point on the surface of Earth is called Antipode. Such Antipode is calculated in Latitude, time and Longitude. Antipode of Latitude: The Antipode of Northern Latitude becomes Southern Latitude and vice versa. For example: The Antipode of 20° Northern Latitude becomes 20° Southern Latitude. 150 SOCIAL STUDIES - GRADE 8