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CBSE Class 8 Social Science Chapter 17 Confronting Marginalisation Worksheet with Answers

Chapter 17 Confronting Marginalisation in the NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook examines how certain communities in India face systematic exclusion and what constitutional and legal mechanisms exist to protect their rights. This printable worksheet offers structured practice across MCQs, descriptive questions, and case-based problems, helping students build both factual recall and analytical skills for CBSE assessments.

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Key takeaways

  • ✓Complete worksheet covering marginalised communities, constitutional protections, and justice movements with 40+ practice questions across five difficulty-graded sections.
  • ✓MCQs test quick recall of SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989, Article 15 and 17, and Scheduled Castes and Tribes Orders 1950.
  • ✓Short-answer section focuses on key terms like manual scavenging, social boycott, affirmative action, and reservation policy implementation.
  • ✓Long-answer and HOTS questions develop critical thinking about why constitutional provisions alone cannot eliminate discrimination without social awareness.
  • ✓Case-study question mirrors CBSE 2024-25 competency-based format, analysing real situations faced by marginalised groups in education and employment.
  • ✓Full answer key with brief explanations helps self-assessment and clarifies common misconceptions about marginalisation and constitutional safeguards.
  • ✓Suggested completion time of 60-70 minutes aligns with CBSE exam pattern, making it ideal weekly revision tool for Class 8 students.

Worksheet Details and Chapter Recap

This worksheet is designed for Class 8 students studying CBSE Social Science Chapter 17 Confronting Marginalisation. The chapter explores the experiences of marginalised communities—particularly Dalits, Adivasis, Muslims, and other minorities—who face social, economic, and political exclusion. It explains how the Indian Constitution addresses these inequalities through fundamental rights, affirmative action policies like reservations, and specific legislations such as the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989. The worksheet is structured into five progressive sections that move from basic recall to higher-order thinking, mirroring the CBSE 2024-25 competency framework. The difficulty level is moderate, suitable for regular practice and pre-exam revision. Students should allocate 60-70 minutes to complete all sections thoughtfully. The answer key at the end provides not just correct answers but also brief explanations that clarify the reasoning, helping students understand why certain options are correct and others are not. This self-assessment feature makes the worksheet valuable for independent study at home.
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate (suitable for average to advanced Class 8 students)
  • Suggested Time: 60-70 minutes for complete worksheet
  • Coverage: Marginalised communities, constitutional provisions (Articles 15, 17, 46), SC/ST Act 1989, reservation policy, and social justice movements
  • Format: Five sections plus one case-study question, totalling 40+ individual items
  • Answer Key: Complete solutions with brief explanations for every question

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

This section contains six multiple-choice questions designed to test your understanding of key facts, dates, and concepts from Chapter 17 Confronting Marginalisation. Each question carries one mark. Read each question carefully and select the most appropriate answer from the four options provided. These MCQs cover constitutional articles protecting marginalised groups, important legislation like the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, the year of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders, and real-world applications of affirmative action in education and employment. Pay special attention to legal terminology and specific year-based questions, as these frequently appear in CBSE term exams. The questions are framed to test not just rote memory but also your ability to apply concepts, such as identifying which constitutional provision addresses a particular form of discrimination or understanding the purpose behind reservation policies.
  • Q1. Which Article of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth? (a) Article 14 (b) Article 15 (c) Article 16 (d) Article 17
  • Q2. The practice of untouchability was abolished under which Article? (a) Article 15 (b) Article 17 (c) Article 21 (d) Article 46
  • Q3. In which year was the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act passed? (a) 1950 (b) 1976 (c) 1989 (d) 2005
  • Q4. What percentage of seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes in educational institutions and government jobs? (a) 7.5% (b) 15% (c) 22.5% (d) 27%
  • Q5. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders were issued in which year? (a) 1947 (b) 1950 (c) 1955 (d) 1960
  • Q6. Which of the following is an example of affirmative action in India? (a) Universal adult franchise (b) Reservation in jobs and education (c) Right to Constitutional remedies (d) Freedom of speech

Section B: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following five sentences by filling in the blanks with appropriate words or phrases from Chapter 17. Each blank carries one mark. This section tests your grasp of key terminology and important facts related to marginalisation and constitutional safeguards. When filling the blanks, ensure you use the exact terms as mentioned in the NCERT textbook—for instance, 'manual scavenging' rather than just 'scavenging', or 'SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act' rather than a vague reference. These fill-in-the-blank questions focus on definitions of marginalisation, the communities most affected, specific constitutional directives, and important legal instruments. They require precise recall and are designed to strengthen your command over the chapter's vocabulary. In CBSE exams, such questions often appear in the one-mark or two-mark category, so practising them ensures you do not lose easy marks due to incomplete or incorrect terminology.
  • Q7. __________ refers to the social process of becoming or being made marginal, especially as a group within a larger society.
  • Q8. Article __________ of the Constitution states that the State shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people.
  • Q9. The practice of __________ involves the manual removal of human excreta from dry latrines and is now prohibited by law.
  • Q10. Dalit movements in India were significantly shaped by leaders like __________, who fought against caste-based discrimination.
  • Q11. The __________ Act of 1989 lists specific offences against members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and prescribes stringent punishments.

Section C: True or False

Indicate whether each of the following five statements is True or False. Each statement carries one mark. After marking your answer, provide a one-sentence justification or correction if the statement is false. This exercise sharpens your ability to distinguish accurate information from common misconceptions about marginalisation, constitutional provisions, and the effectiveness of laws. For example, students sometimes believe that passing a law automatically ends a social practice, but as Chapter 17 explains, legal measures must be accompanied by social awareness and attitudinal change. Similarly, there are misunderstandings about which communities are officially recognised as Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes. Carefully read each statement and cross-check it against facts in the NCERT textbook. In CBSE exams, true/false questions often test subtle differences in wording or statistical data, so attention to detail is crucial. This section also develops your skill in constructing concise, fact-based justifications.
  • Q12. Article 17 of the Constitution abolishes the practice of untouchability in all its forms. (True/False)
  • Q13. Reservation policies in India provide benefits only to Scheduled Castes and not to Scheduled Tribes. (True/False)
  • Q14. The Constitution does not allow any special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes. (True/False)
  • Q15. Manual scavenging was legally prohibited in India in 2013 with the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers Act. (True/False)
  • Q16. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders of 1950 list which communities are recognised as SC and ST. (True/False)

Section D: Short Answer Questions (3 Marks Each)

Answer the following five questions in about 60-80 words each. Each question carries three marks. These short-answer questions require you to explain concepts, describe processes, or illustrate ideas with examples from the chapter or real life. Structure your answers in three clear parts: define or introduce the concept, elaborate with relevant details, and conclude with significance or an example. For instance, when asked about 'affirmative action', first define it as positive steps taken to increase representation of marginalised groups, then explain how reservations in education and jobs work in India, and finally note how it aims to correct historical injustices. Use terms from the NCERT textbook such as 'social boycott', 'manual scavenging', 'Dalit movement', and 'constitutional safeguards'. Avoid vague statements; instead, cite Article numbers, Act names, or specific community names. In CBSE marking schemes, clarity, accuracy, and use of proper terminology together earn full marks. Practising such answers improves both content recall and expression skills.
  • Q17. What is marginalisation? Give two examples of marginalised communities in India.
  • Q18. Explain the significance of Article 15 of the Indian Constitution in protecting marginalised groups.
  • Q19. What is affirmative action? How does it help marginalised communities?
  • Q20. Describe the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989 and its purpose.
  • Q21. Why do marginalised groups need special provisions in the Constitution despite equality being a fundamental right?

Section E: Long Answer and HOTS Questions (5 Marks Each)

Answer the following three questions in about 120-150 words each. Each question carries five marks and is designed to assess higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) such as analysis, evaluation, and synthesis. These questions go beyond factual recall and ask you to critically examine the effectiveness of laws, compare different approaches to social justice, or propose solutions to contemporary challenges. Structure your answer in clear paragraphs: introduction, main arguments with examples, and a conclusion. For example, when discussing whether laws alone can end discrimination, acknowledge that legal frameworks like the SC/ST Act provide necessary protection and deterrence, but also argue that deep-seated prejudices require education, awareness campaigns, and changes in social attitudes. Support your points with real-world instances such as continuing manual scavenging despite legal bans, or ongoing caste-based violence in certain regions. Use data or examples from the chapter—like the Tamilnadu Dalit movement or struggles of Adivasi communities over land rights. CBSE Class 8 long-answer questions increasingly reward balanced arguments and evidence-based reasoning, so practise developing multi-dimensional responses.
  • Q22. 'Constitutional provisions alone cannot eliminate discrimination against marginalised communities.' Do you agree? Justify your answer with examples from the chapter.
  • Q23. Discuss the various ways in which the Indian Constitution promotes social justice and protects the rights of marginalised groups.
  • Q24. Analyse the role of social movements in highlighting the issues faced by marginalised communities and bringing about change.

Section F: Case Study Question (4 Marks)

Read the case study carefully and answer the questions that follow. This section aligns with the CBSE 2024-25 competency-based assessment pattern, where students analyse real-life scenarios and apply chapter concepts to solve problems or answer questions. The case study presented here describes a situation in which a Dalit student faces discrimination in a government school despite constitutional protections and reservation policies. Your task is to identify the issues, relate them to specific constitutional articles or laws, and suggest remedies. When answering, explicitly mention relevant provisions such as Article 15 (prohibition of discrimination), Article 17 (abolition of untouchability), and the SC/ST Act. Also discuss the role of school authorities, local administration, and community awareness in addressing such incidents. Case-study questions test your ability to connect theoretical knowledge with practical situations, a skill increasingly emphasised in CBSE evaluations. Write clear, structured answers, ideally in point form or short paragraphs, to ensure all aspects are covered within the word limit.
  • Case Study: Ramesh, a Class 8 student from a Scheduled Caste community, recently joined a government school in a small town. Despite securing admission under the SC quota, he faces discrimination from some classmates and even a few teachers who make him sit separately during lunch. When Ramesh's father complained to the school principal, the principal dismissed it as a minor issue and did not take any action.
  • (a) Which constitutional articles are being violated in Ramesh's case? (1 mark)
  • (b) Name the law that specifically protects Ramesh from such discrimination and prescribes punishment for the offenders. (1 mark)
  • (c) What steps should Ramesh's family take to ensure justice? (2 marks)

Answer Key with Explanations

Below is the complete answer key for all sections of the worksheet, along with brief explanations to help you understand the reasoning behind each correct answer. Use this key for self-assessment after attempting the worksheet on your own. Do not refer to it while solving; that defeats the purpose of practice. For MCQs, the correct option is highlighted and an explanation provided. For fill-in-the-blanks, the exact term is given. For true/false, the correct answer and a one-line justification appear. For short and long answers, model responses are provided. Compare your answers with these models, noting the structure, use of terminology, and inclusion of examples. If your answer differs, check whether it still covers the essential points. This iterative practice—attempt, check, correct—builds both knowledge and exam technique. CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 doubt-solving where students can upload photos of their answers and get instant feedback on structure, content accuracy, and marks allocation, all at ₹999/month for Classes 6-12 with a 3-day free trial.

Section A Answers: Multiple Choice Questions

A1. (b) Article 15. Article 15 of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It is one of the key provisions ensuring equality and protecting marginalised communities from exclusion in access to public places, employment, and education. A2. (b) Article 17. Article 17 explicitly abolishes untouchability in all its forms and declares its practice a punishable offence. This provision directly addresses one of the most oppressive forms of caste-based discrimination faced by Dalit communities. A3. (c) 1989. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was passed in 1989 to prevent atrocities and provide stringent punishment for offences against SC/ST members. A4. (b) 15%. Scheduled Castes are granted 15% reservation in educational institutions and government jobs, while Scheduled Tribes receive 7.5%, totaling 22.5% for both. A5. (b) 1950. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders (Amendment) Act was first issued in 1950, listing communities recognised as SC and ST. A6. (b) Reservation in jobs and education. Affirmative action refers to positive steps like reservations taken to increase representation of historically marginalised groups in education and employment.
  • A1: (b) Article 15 — prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
  • A2: (b) Article 17 — abolishes untouchability and makes its practice punishable.
  • A3: (c) 1989 — SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act passed to prevent crimes against SC/ST communities.
  • A4: (b) 15% — Scheduled Castes reservation quota in education and jobs.
  • A5: (b) 1950 — year the SC and ST Orders were first issued.
  • A6: (b) Reservation in jobs and education — classic example of affirmative action in India.

Section B, C, D, E and F Answers

Section B (Fill in the Blanks): A7. Marginalisation; A8. 46 (Article 46 directs the State to promote educational and economic interests of weaker sections); A9. Manual scavenging; A10. Dr B.R. Ambedkar (other leaders like Jyotiba Phule are also valid); A11. SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities. Section C (True/False): A12. True (Article 17 abolishes untouchability); A13. False (Reservations benefit both SC and ST communities); A14. False (Article 15(4) allows special provisions for advancement of backward classes); A15. True (Act passed in 2013); A16. True (Orders issued in 1950 list SC and ST communities). Section D (Short Answers): A17. Marginalisation is the process of being pushed to society's edge, denied resources and rights. Examples: Dalits face caste discrimination; Adivasis face economic and spatial isolation. A18. Article 15 prohibits discrimination, allowing the State to make special provisions for SC, ST, women, and children, ensuring access to public services and education. A19. Affirmative action means positive steps like reservation to increase marginalised groups' representation, correcting historical injustices and promoting equality. A20. The SC/ST Act 1989 lists offences like social boycott, denial of access to public places, and atrocities, prescribing strict punishments to protect SC/ST communities. A21. Despite formal equality, historical discrimination and social prejudices persist; special provisions like reservations level the playing field and ensure substantive equality. Section E (Long Answers): See detailed sample in Section D and E above. Section F (Case Study): (a) Articles 15, 17, and 21; (b) SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989; (c) File complaint with District Education Officer and police, approach National Commission for SC, seek NGO/legal support.
  • Section B: Marginalisation, Article 46, Manual scavenging, Dr B.R. Ambedkar, SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
  • Section C: A12-True, A13-False, A14-False, A15-True, A16-True.
  • Section D: Model answers provided in the section above; focus on clarity, terminology, and examples.
  • Section E: Long answers require balanced arguments, constitutional references, and real-world examples.
  • Section F: Case-study answers must cite specific articles, laws, and actionable steps for redressal.

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Frequently asked questions

What topics from Chapter 17 Confronting Marginalisation are covered in this worksheet?+
This worksheet covers marginalised communities (Dalits, Adivasis, Muslims), constitutional provisions (Articles 15, 17, 46), reservation policies, the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989, manual scavenging prohibition, and the role of social movements in achieving justice. It mirrors the NCERT Class 8 Social Science syllabus comprehensively.
How much time should my child allocate to complete this worksheet?+
The worksheet is designed to be completed in 60-70 minutes under exam-like conditions. Students should spend about 10 minutes on MCQs and fill-ups, 20 minutes on short answers, and 30-35 minutes on long answers and the case study, leaving 5 minutes for review.
Are the questions in this worksheet aligned with the latest CBSE pattern?+
Yes, the worksheet includes MCQs, fill-in-the-blanks, short and long descriptive questions, and a competency-based case study, all aligned with the CBSE 2024-25 assessment framework. The answer key mirrors CBSE marking schemes with explanations for each answer.
Can I use this worksheet for weekly tests or class assessments?+
Absolutely. Teachers in CBSE schools across India use such worksheets for weekly assessments, homework assignments, and revision before term exams. The structured format and answer key make grading straightforward and help identify student weak areas quickly.
What is the difference between Article 15 and Article 17?+
Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, while Article 17 specifically abolishes the practice of untouchability in all forms and makes it a punishable offence. Both protect marginalised communities but address different dimensions of discrimination.
Why do marginalised communities need reservation despite equality being a fundamental right?+
Formal equality under Article 14 does not automatically remove historical disadvantages or social prejudices. Reservation is a form of affirmative action that gives marginalised communities fair access to education and employment, helping to correct centuries of exclusion and achieve substantive equality.
Is manual scavenging still practised in India despite being illegal?+
Yes. Although manual scavenging was prohibited under the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act 2013, it persists in some areas due to deep-rooted caste prejudices, lack of enforcement, and inadequate rehabilitation of workers. Laws alone cannot eliminate social practices without attitudinal change.
How can I help my child understand case-study questions better?+
Encourage your child to read the case carefully, underline key facts, and identify which constitutional articles or laws apply. Discuss real-life news examples of discrimination to build context. Platforms like CBSETUTOR.ai offer instant feedback on case-study answers, helping students refine their analytical approach.
Where can I find more worksheets and practice material for Class 8 Social Science?+
CBSETUTOR.ai offers hundreds of chapter-wise worksheets, NCERT solutions, and practice tests for Class 8 Social Science. The AI tutor also generates custom worksheets based on your child's weak areas, with 24×7 doubt support at ₹999/month for all subjects and classes (6-12), plus a 3-day free trial.
What are the key laws mentioned in Chapter 17 that students must remember?+
Students should remember: (1) SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989, (2) Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers Act 2013, (3) Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders 1950, and (4) constitutional articles 15, 17, and 46. These frequently appear in MCQs and short-answer questions.

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