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CBSE Class 10 Social Science Chapter 6 Resources and Development Worksheet with Answers

Resources and Development is a foundational chapter in CBSE Class 10 Social Science Geography that introduces students to resource classification, land use patterns, soil types, and sustainable development. This printable worksheet is tailored to the latest NCERT syllabus and CBSE board exam pattern, offering a mix of objective and descriptive questions to strengthen conceptual understanding and application skills.

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Key takeaways

✓Printable worksheet covering all NCERT topics from Resources and Development with varied question types
✓6 MCQs test basic concepts, 5 fill-ups reinforce terminology, and matching exercises build connections
✓5 short-answer questions mirror 3-mark CBSE board pattern, helping students frame precise answers
✓3 long-answer questions and one case-study question develop analytical and application skills
✓Complete answer key with explanations enables self-assessment and concept clarity
✓Moderate-to-challenging difficulty level suitable for final revision before term exams and boards
✓90-minute suggested time frame mimics real exam conditions for effective practice

Quick Chapter Recap: Resources and Development

Chapter 6 Resources and Development from NCERT Class 10 Social Science introduces the concept of resources as substances found in nature that satisfy human needs and have economic value. Resources are classified on the basis of origin into biotic and abiotic; on the basis of exhaustibility into renewable and non-renewable; on the basis of ownership into individual, community, national, and international; and on the basis of status of development into potential, developed, stock, and reserves. The chapter emphasizes land as a critical resource in India, covering land use categories such as forests, net sown area, barren land, and culturable wasteland. Soil is discussed as a living system formed through weathering processes, with major soil types including alluvial, black, red, laterite, arid, and forest soils. The chapter concludes with resource planning and conservation strategies, highlighting sustainable development and the importance of judicious use to prevent degradation and depletion.

Resource classification: biotic/abiotic, renewable/non-renewable, individual/community/national/international, potential/developed/stock/reserves
Land use patterns in India: net sown area accounts for about 43%, forests 22.5%, other categories include barren and culturable wasteland
Major soil types: alluvial (most widespread), black (regur, rich in calcium), red (iron-rich), laterite (leached in heavy rainfall areas), arid, and forest soils
Resource conservation methods: afforestation, contour ploughing, terrace farming, crop rotation, and community participation
Sustainable development: balancing present needs with future availability, preventing resource depletion

Worksheet Details and Instructions

This worksheet is designed for CBSE Class 10 students preparing for term exams and board examinations. It aligns with the NCERT Class 10 Social Science textbook and follows the latest CBSE marking scheme. The difficulty level is moderate to challenging, ensuring that students encounter both recall-based and higher-order thinking questions. The suggested time to complete this worksheet is 90 minutes under exam-like conditions, though students may take longer during initial practice. Each section targets specific skills: Section A tests factual recall and conceptual clarity through MCQs; Section B reinforces key terminology; Section C builds connections between terms and definitions; Sections D and E develop writing and analytical skills for board exams; and the case-study question assesses application and interpretation abilities. Students should attempt all questions on a separate sheet, then verify answers using the detailed answer key provided at the end. This worksheet can be printed and used for individual practice, peer study sessions, or classroom assessments.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Suggested Time: 90 minutes (under exam conditions)
Total Marks: 50 (MCQs: 6 marks, Fill-ups: 5 marks, Matching: 5 marks, Short answers: 15 marks, Long answers: 15 marks, Case study: 4 marks)
Use a separate answer sheet; avoid writing on the question paper if you plan to reuse it
After completion, check your answers against the answer key and note areas requiring further revision

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each)

Multiple-choice questions test your foundational understanding of resources, their classification, land use, and soil types as covered in NCERT Class 10 Social Science Chapter 6. Each question has four options, and only one is correct. Read each question carefully, eliminate obviously incorrect options, and select the best answer. These MCQs mirror the objective questions that appear in CBSE board exams and term tests. Pay attention to terms like biotic, abiotic, renewable, non-renewable, potential resources, developed resources, stock, and reserves. Also focus on soil characteristics such as colour, texture, mineral composition, and regional distribution across India. Scoring well in this section builds confidence and sets a strong foundation for tackling subjective questions later in the worksheet. Take approximately 10-12 minutes for this section to maintain a steady pace throughout the worksheet.

Q1. Resources that are surveyed and their quantity and quality determined are called:
(a) Potential resources (b) Developed resources (c) Stock (d) Reserves
Q2. Which one of the following soil types is most suitable for cotton cultivation?
(a) Alluvial soil (b) Red soil (c) Black soil (d) Laterite soil
Q3. The process of transformation of rock into soil is known as:
(a) Erosion (b) Weathering (c) Sedimentation (d) Leaching
Q4. Hydrogen and oxygen are examples of:
(a) Biotic resources (b) Abiotic resources (c) Renewable resources (d) Non-renewable resources
Q5. Which type of resource ownership does a park belong to?
(a) Individual (b) Community (c) National (d) International
Q6. Contour ploughing is primarily used to:
(a) Increase soil fertility (b) Prevent soil erosion (c) Improve irrigation (d) Increase crop yield

Section B: Fill in the Blanks (1 mark each)

Fill-in-the-blank questions require precise recall of key terms, definitions, and facts from the chapter Resources and Development. This section reinforces your grasp of important vocabulary and factual data that frequently appear in CBSE Class 10 Social Science examinations. When filling blanks, ensure correct spelling and use the exact terminology from the NCERT textbook. For instance, use 'regur' for black soil, 'khadar' and 'bhangar' for alluvial soil types, and 'Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit' for the 1992 conference on sustainable development. These questions often test your attention to detail during chapter reading and note-making. Spend about 5-7 minutes on this section, writing your answers neatly. If unsure, move on and return after completing other sections, as context from later questions may jog your memory. This section is a quick way to secure easy marks if you have revised the chapter thoroughly.

Q7. The minerals found in rocks but not yet technically or economically feasible to extract are known as ___________.
Q8. ___________ soil is also known as regur soil and is ideal for growing cotton.
Q9. The degradation of land due to human activities is called ___________.
Q10. The oceanic resources beyond 200 nautical miles of the Exclusive Economic Zone belong to ___________ ownership.
Q11. ___________ is the practice of planting trees in areas where forests have been cut down to prevent soil erosion.

Section C: Match the Following (5 marks)

Matching exercises test your ability to connect related concepts, definitions, and examples from the chapter Resources and Development. This section includes two columns: Column A contains terms or concepts, and Column B contains their definitions, characteristics, or examples. Your task is to correctly pair each item in Column A with the most appropriate item in Column B. Write your answers as combinations such as 1-d, 2-a, and so on. This question type assesses not just rote memorization but also conceptual clarity and the ability to differentiate between similar terms. For instance, you must distinguish between 'potential resources' and 'reserves', or between 'alluvial soil' and 'black soil' based on their unique characteristics. Allocate about 8-10 minutes for this section. First, match the items you are absolutely sure about, then use the process of elimination for the remaining pairs. Cross-check your answers before moving to the next section to avoid careless errors that can cost easy marks in board exams.

Match Column A with Column B:
Column A: (1) Renewable resources (2) Alluvial soil (3) Abiotic resources (4) Land degradation (5) Community resources
Column B: (a) Grazing grounds, ponds (b) Wind, solar energy (c) Non-living resources like minerals (d) Found in river deltas and flood plains (e) Overgrazing, deforestation, mining
Write your answers as: 1-___, 2-___, 3-___, 4-___, 5-___

Section D: Short Answer Questions (3 marks each)

Short-answer questions in CBSE Class 10 Social Science typically carry 3 marks and require concise, structured responses of approximately 60-80 words. These questions test your ability to explain concepts, differentiate between terms, give examples, and present information logically. When answering, start with a clear definition or statement, then elaborate with relevant points or examples from the NCERT textbook. For instance, if asked to differentiate between renewable and non-renewable resources, define both terms, then give two examples of each, and optionally mention their significance or usage. Use bullet points or numbered lists within your answer to improve readability and ensure you cover all aspects of the question. Aim to complete each answer in about 5-6 minutes, totalling around 25-30 minutes for this entire section. These questions are scoring opportunities if you present well-organized, factually accurate answers. Avoid vague statements; instead, include specific examples such as 'alluvial soil is found in the Indo-Gangetic plains' rather than just saying 'alluvial soil is found in river valleys.'

Q12. Distinguish between biotic and abiotic resources with two examples each.
Q13. Explain the concept of sustainable development. Why is it important?
Q14. Describe the characteristics of black soil. Name the regions in India where it is predominantly found.
Q15. What is resource planning? Mention the three stages involved in resource planning in India.
Q16. How does human activity lead to land degradation? Suggest two methods to prevent it.

Section E: Long Answer and HOTS Questions (5 marks each)

Long-answer questions carry 5 marks and demand comprehensive, well-structured responses of about 120-150 words. They assess your depth of understanding, analytical thinking, and ability to synthesize information from different parts of the chapter. These questions often ask you to explain processes, describe classifications with examples, or evaluate the impact of certain practices. Structure your answers with an introduction, body (with sub-points or numbered steps), and a brief conclusion if appropriate. For example, when describing soil types, mention at least four types, their colour and texture, regions where found, crops suited to each, and any special features. Higher-Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) questions require application and analysis, such as evaluating the impact of mining on land resources or suggesting measures for conservation. Allocate 8-10 minutes per question for this section, totalling about 25-30 minutes. Use diagrams or flowcharts if they add value (for instance, a simple flowchart for resource planning stages). These questions often make the difference between scoring in the 70-80 percent range versus the 90-plus range, so invest time in crafting clear, fact-rich answers. Refer to NCERT Class 10 Social Science notes and solutions to see model answers for similar questions.

Q17. Classify resources on the basis of origin, exhaustibility, ownership, and status of development. Give one example for each category.
Q18. Describe the different types of soil found in India. Mention the characteristics, distribution, and crops associated with any three types.
Q19. Explain the need for resource conservation. Discuss any four methods that can be adopted to conserve land and soil resources in India.

Section F: Case-Study Based Question (4 marks)

Case-study questions are increasingly common in CBSE Class 10 Social Science exams and typically carry 4 marks. They present a real-world scenario, data extract, or descriptive passage related to the chapter, followed by 3-4 short sub-questions. These questions assess your ability to interpret information, apply concepts, and draw conclusions. Read the case carefully, underline key facts and figures, and relate them to concepts learned in Resources and Development. For instance, a case on soil erosion might ask you to identify causes, suggest remedies, and explain the role of government policies. Answer each sub-question precisely, using evidence from the case passage wherever possible. This section tests comprehension, application, and analytical skills simultaneously. Spend about 10-12 minutes reading, analyzing, and answering the case-study question. These questions are scoring opportunities because the answers are often embedded in the passage itself, so careful reading is crucial. Practising such questions helps you develop exam temperament and time management, both vital for scoring well in boards.

Q20. Read the case below and answer the questions that follow:
Case: In a village in Maharashtra, farmers noticed that soil productivity had declined sharply over the past decade. Investigation revealed continuous cotton monoculture, lack of crop rotation, overuse of chemical fertilizers, and deforestation on surrounding hills leading to topsoil erosion during monsoons. An NGO introduced contour ploughing, terrace farming, and encouraged farmers to plant legumes alternately with cotton.
(i) Identify the type of soil likely found in this region and justify your answer. (1 mark)
(ii) List two causes of land degradation mentioned in the case. (1 mark)
(iii) Explain how crop rotation helps in soil conservation. (1 mark)
(iv) Suggest one more method the village can adopt to prevent further degradation. (1 mark)

Answer Key with Explanations

This comprehensive answer key provides correct answers and brief explanations for every question in the worksheet, enabling self-assessment and deeper learning. After completing the worksheet, students should compare their answers against this key, awarding marks honestly. For MCQs and fill-ups, answers are straightforward. For short-answer and long-answer questions, the key provides model answers highlighting essential points; students may use different wording but must include the core ideas to earn full marks. Understanding why an answer is correct or incorrect is more important than the score itself. If you scored below 70 percent, revisit the NCERT Class 10 Social Science textbook and make detailed notes. If you scored 70-85 percent, focus on accuracy and presentation. Above 85 percent indicates strong preparation, but review any mistakes to avoid repetition in exams. Use the explanations here to clarify doubts and strengthen conceptual understanding. For additional practice and instant doubt-solving with step-by-step solutions, students can explore CBSETUTOR.ai, which offers 24×7 AI-powered tutoring with photo-upload solving at a flat ₹999 per month for all classes from 6 to 12, with a 3-day free trial to get started. This answer key is your roadmap to mastering Resources and Development and building confidence for CBSE board exams.

Section A Answers (MCQs)

A1. (d) Reserves – Reserves are resources that have been surveyed, their quantity and quality determined, and are technologically and economically feasible to extract, but are being conserved for future use. Potential resources exist but have not been surveyed; stock resources cannot yet be used due to lack of technology; developed resources are currently being used. A2. (c) Black soil – Black soil, also called regur, is rich in calcium, magnesium, potash, and lime, and retains moisture well, making it ideal for cotton cultivation. It is predominantly found in the Deccan plateau covering parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. A3. (b) Weathering – Weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down into smaller particles through physical, chemical, and biological actions, eventually forming soil over long periods. Erosion is the removal of topsoil; sedimentation is deposition; leaching is nutrient loss. A4. (b) Abiotic resources – Hydrogen and oxygen are non-living, chemical elements, hence classified as abiotic resources. Biotic resources are derived from living organisms. They are also considered as stock since technology to use them fully is still developing. A5. (b) Community – Parks, grazing grounds, village ponds, and playgrounds are community resources owned and managed collectively by a community for common use, unlike individual private property or national resources like forests and minerals. A6. (b) Prevent soil erosion – Contour ploughing involves ploughing along the natural contours of the land, perpendicular to the slope. This reduces water runoff speed, prevents topsoil from being washed away, and helps in moisture retention, thereby controlling soil erosion.

Section B, C, D, E and Case-Study Answers

Section B Answers (Fill-ups): A7. Stock – Minerals in rocks that cannot yet be extracted due to lack of technology or economic viability are called stock. A8. Black – Black soil, or regur, is volcanic in origin, retains moisture, and is best for cotton. A9. Land degradation – Human activities like overgrazing, deforestation, mining, and improper irrigation cause land degradation. A10. International – The oceanic area beyond 200 nautical miles of EEZ is open ocean and belongs to international ownership under maritime law. A11. Afforestation – Planting trees on barren or deforested land is afforestation, a key conservation method. Section C Answer (Matching): 1-b, 2-d, 3-c, 4-e, 5-a. Section D Answers: A12. Biotic resources are obtained from living organisms (e.g. forests, wildlife). Abiotic resources are non-living (e.g. minerals, water). A13. (See example in Section D above.) A14. Black soil is dark, clayey, retains moisture, rich in lime and magnesium, suitable for cotton. Found in Deccan plateau: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh. A15. Resource planning is systematic identification, distribution, and judicious use of resources. Stages: (i) Survey and mapping, (ii) Evolving planning structure with technology and institutions, (iii) Matching resource plans with national development goals. A16. Overgrazing removes vegetation cover; deforestation causes erosion; mining disturbs soil. Methods: afforestation, contour ploughing. Section E Answers: A17. Origin: biotic (forests), abiotic (minerals). Exhaustibility: renewable (solar), non-renewable (coal). Ownership: individual (land), community (parks), national (minerals), international (oceanic). Status: potential (Rajasthan wind), developed (Mumbai land), stock (hydrogen), reserves (forest reserves). A18. (i) Alluvial – light, found in Indo-Gangetic plains, suitable for wheat, rice, sugarcane. (ii) Black – dark, Deccan plateau, cotton. (iii) Red – iron-rich, Peninsular region, millets, pulses. (iv) Laterite – leached, high rainfall areas like Kerala, cashew, tapioca. A19. (See example in Section E above.) Case-Study Answers: A20(i). Black soil (regur), because the case mentions Maharashtra and cotton monoculture, and black soil is ideal for cotton and widespread in Maharashtra. A20(ii). Continuous monoculture of cotton and overuse of chemical fertilizers. A20(iii). Crop rotation alternates crops like legumes with cotton, restoring nitrogen and soil nutrients naturally, reducing chemical dependence and maintaining fertility. A20(iv). Afforestation on surrounding hills to prevent topsoil runoff and erosion during rains.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difficulty level and suggested time for this Resources and Development worksheet?+

This worksheet is moderate to challenging, designed for thorough CBSE Class 10 board exam preparation. The suggested completion time is 90 minutes under exam-like conditions, though students may take longer during initial practice.

Does this worksheet cover all topics from NCERT Class 10 Social Science Chapter 6?+

Yes, the worksheet covers all key topics: resource classification (biotic/abiotic, renewable/non-renewable, ownership, status), land resources and use patterns, soil types (alluvial, black, red, laterite, arid, forest), and resource conservation methods as per NCERT.

How should I use the answer key provided with this worksheet?+

Complete the entire worksheet on a separate sheet without referring to answers. Then, check your responses against the answer key, awarding marks honestly. Read the explanations for every question, especially those you got wrong, to understand concepts deeply and avoid repeating mistakes.

Are the questions in this worksheet similar to actual CBSE board exam questions?+

Yes, the worksheet follows the latest CBSE exam pattern and marking scheme. MCQs, short-answer (3 marks), long-answer (5 marks), and case-study questions mirror the style and difficulty of recent CBSE Class 10 Social Science board papers.

Which soil type is most suitable for cotton cultivation and where is it found?+

Black soil, also known as regur soil, is most suitable for cotton cultivation. It is rich in calcium, magnesium, and retains moisture well. Black soil is predominantly found in the Deccan plateau region covering Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Karnataka.

What are the three stages of resource planning mentioned in NCERT?+

The three stages are: (i) Identification and inventory of resources through surveys and mapping, (ii) Evolving a planning structure with appropriate technology, skill, and institutional setup, (iii) Matching the resource development plans with overall national development goals.

How does contour ploughing help in soil conservation?+

Contour ploughing is done along the natural contours of sloping land, perpendicular to the slope. This practice reduces the speed of water runoff during rains, minimizes topsoil erosion, and helps retain moisture in the soil, thereby conserving soil and preventing land degradation.

What is the difference between stock and reserves in resource classification?+

Stock refers to resources that exist in nature but cannot be used due to lack of appropriate technology (e.g. hydrogen for energy). Reserves are resources that have been surveyed, their quantity determined, and can be extracted with current technology, but are kept for future use (e.g. forest reserves).

Can I print this worksheet for offline practice?+

Absolutely. This worksheet is designed to be printer-friendly. You can print it, solve all questions on a separate answer sheet, and then check your answers using the detailed answer key provided at the end for effective self-assessment and revision.

Where can I get instant solutions if I am stuck on any question from this chapter?+

You can use CBSETUTOR.ai, which offers 24×7 AI tutoring with photo-upload solving. Simply snap a picture of the question and get step-by-step explanations instantly. It covers all CBSE classes 6-12 at ₹999/month with a 3-day free trial available for new users.

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