CBSE Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8 Resources Worksheet with Answers
Chapter 8 Resources from NCERT Class 8 Social Science Geography introduces students to the fundamental concept of resources—everything in our environment that satisfies human needs and has utility. This worksheet provides structured practice across all question types that appear in CBSE term examinations, from objective MCQs to higher-order thinking questions that demand analysis and evaluation. Complete this worksheet in 60 minutes to simulate exam conditions and build confidence.
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Key takeaways
- ✓Resources are classified into natural, human-made and human resources based on their origin and development
- ✓Conservation of resources through reduce, reuse and recycle principles prevents depletion and environmental harm
- ✓Sustainable development balances present needs with future generations' resource availability
- ✓Renewable resources like solar and wind energy can replenish naturally, while non-renewable ones like coal cannot
- ✓Human resources—people with skills and knowledge—transform natural materials into valuable products
- ✓Individual and community actions like rainwater harvesting and afforestation directly impact resource conservation
- ✓NCERT Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8 emphasises responsible resource use as a citizen's duty
Quick Chapter Recap: Understanding Resources
Before attempting this worksheet, revisit the core ideas from NCERT Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8. Resources are substances or objects that have value and utility. They fall into three broad categories: natural resources (gifts of nature like air, water, minerals), human-made resources (technology, buildings, machinery created by humans), and human resources (people with skills, knowledge and ability to work). The chapter emphasises that resources are not static—their value depends on human knowledge and technology. For instance, uranium had no value until we discovered nuclear energy. Conservation means using resources carefully to avoid wastage and depletion. The principle of sustainable development ensures we meet today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. This framework appears repeatedly in CBSE examinations and forms the backbone of environmental studies in Class 8 Social Science solutions and notes.
- Natural resources: air, water, soil, minerals, forests, wildlife
- Human-made resources: buildings, vehicles, roads, technology, machines
- Human resources: population with education, skills, health and motivation
- Conservation strategies: reduce consumption, reuse items, recycle materials
- Sustainable development: balancing economic growth with environmental protection
Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
This section contains six carefully designed MCQs that test recall, comprehension and application of concepts from Chapter 8 Resources. Each question has four options with only one correct answer. These MCQs mirror the pattern seen in CBSE Class 8 Social Science term exams and follow NCERT terminology exactly. Choose the most appropriate option based on your understanding of types of resources, conservation methods and sustainable development principles. Mark your answers clearly and avoid random guessing—each question carries one mark in the typical CBSE marking scheme. Review the answer key at the end to identify areas needing revision. 1. Which of the following is a human-made resource? a) Forest b) Coal mine c) Bridge d) River 2. Resources that can be renewed or reproduced are called: a) Non-renewable resources b) Renewable resources c) Human resources d) Abiotic resources 3. The process of transformation of natural resources into usable forms requires: a) Only natural processes b) Human resources and technology c) Government permission only d) International cooperation 4. Which principle is NOT part of resource conservation? a) Reduce b) Reuse c) Recycle d) Rapidly consume 5. Sustainable development aims to: a) Use all resources immediately b) Stop all economic activities c) Balance present needs with future availability d) Depend only on imports 6. An example of renewable resource is: a) Coal b) Petroleum c) Solar energy d) Natural gas
Section B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete each sentence with the correct term from Chapter 8 Resources. These five fill-in-the-blank questions test your grasp of key vocabulary and definitions that appear throughout NCERT Class 8 Social Science. Pay attention to spelling—CBSE examiners deduct marks for incorrect spelling of technical terms. Use the exact terminology from the textbook. This section typically carries five marks in the examination, with one mark per blank. Write your answers neatly in the space provided. Cross-check your responses with the detailed answer key after completing the worksheet. 1. Everything available in our environment which can be used to satisfy our needs is called a __________. 2. Resources created by human beings using natural resources are known as __________ resources. 3. The judicious use of resources and giving them time to get renewed is called __________. 4. __________ are gifts of nature and include air, water, soil and minerals. 5. Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations is called __________ development.
Section C: Match the Following and True/False
This section combines two question types commonly seen in CBSE Class 8 Social Science examinations. First, match five items from Column A with their correct descriptions in Column B. Draw clear lines or write the corresponding letters. Then, determine whether five statements about resources are true or false. If false, mentally note the correct version—this practice strengthens conceptual clarity. Both exercises require careful reading and understanding of Chapter 8 Resources rather than rote memorisation. Complete this section within 8 minutes. These questions often appear in the first half of CBSE term papers and are considered moderate difficulty. The answer key provides full explanations for every item, helping you understand why an answer is correct or incorrect. Match the Following:
Column A | Column B
A. Renewable resource | 1. People with skills and knowledge
B. Non-renewable resource | 2. Solar energy
C. Human resource | 3. Coal
D. Afforestation | 4. Planting trees
E. Technology | 5. Human-made resource True or False:
1. Air and water are examples of human-made resources.
2. Conservation helps in sustaining resources for future generations.
3. Human resources include only the working population.
4. Sustainable development ignores environmental concerns.
5. The value of resources changes with time and technology.
Section D: Short Answer Questions (3 marks each)
Answer these five short questions in about 50-60 words each. CBSE marking schemes for Class 8 Social Science allocate three marks per short answer, expecting three clear points or a well-structured paragraph covering the question's demands. Use NCERT terminology—terms like natural resources, human-made resources, conservation, sustainable development should appear in your responses. Support your answers with appropriate examples from the textbook or real-life scenarios. Avoid vague statements; be specific. For instance, do not write 'resources are important'—explain why and how they are important. These questions develop the ability to express geographical concepts clearly, a skill tested in both term exams and competitive examinations. Budget approximately 15 minutes for this section. Refer to Class 8 Social Science solutions and notes if you need additional context after checking the answer key provided at the end of this worksheet. 1. Differentiate between natural resources and human-made resources with examples. 2. Explain the three R's of resource conservation. 3. Why are human resources considered the most important resource? Give two reasons. 4. What is sustainable development? Why is it important? 5. How does technology affect the utility of resources? Provide an example.
Section E: Long Answer and HOTS Questions (5 marks each)
This section contains three long-answer questions requiring detailed responses of 100-120 words each. CBSE Class 8 Social Science examiners award five marks for answers that demonstrate depth of understanding, logical structure, use of examples, and ability to connect concepts. Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) questions demand analysis, evaluation or synthesis—not just recall. Structure each answer with an introduction, three to four body points with examples, and a brief conclusion. Use subheadings or bullet points if it improves clarity. Reference real-world scenarios like India's Namami Gange programme for river conservation or the Chipko movement for forest protection to score full marks. Allocate 20 minutes to this section. These questions mirror the pattern of annual CBSE board exams from Class 9 onwards, so practising them now builds valuable skills. The answer key offers model answers; compare your responses to identify gaps in argumentation or example usage. CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 doubt-clearing for such subjective questions—simply upload a photo of your written answer and receive instant feedback at a flat ₹999 per month for all subjects across Classes 6-12, with a three-day free trial to explore the platform. 1. Discuss the classification of resources based on their origin. Provide examples for each category. 2. Explain why conservation of resources is essential. Suggest any four practical steps individuals and communities can take. 3. Analyse the relationship between economic development and environmental conservation. Can they coexist? Justify your answer.
Case Study Question with Sub-Parts
Case-based questions have become a staple of the revised CBSE pattern for Class 8 Social Science examinations. Read the short paragraph carefully, then answer three sub-questions based on it. This format tests comprehension, inference and application skills simultaneously. Each sub-question typically carries one or two marks. Underline or highlight key facts in the passage—dates, names, numbers—before attempting the questions. Such questions integrate Chapter 8 Resources concepts with real-life situations, requiring you to apply conservation principles or identify resource types in context. Spend about 8 minutes on this question. The answer key explains not only the correct answers but also the reasoning process, helping you develop analytical reading skills essential for higher classes. Case Study:
Village Surajpur in Rajasthan faced acute water scarcity every summer. Wells dried up and women walked 3 kilometres daily to fetch water. In 2018, the gram panchayat started a rainwater harvesting project. Rooftop systems and check dams were built using community labour and government funds. Within two years, groundwater levels rose by 4 metres. The village now has water year-round. Farmers grow two crops instead of one. Children, especially girls, attend school regularly as they no longer spend hours fetching water. Questions:
1. Identify the natural resource discussed in the case study. (1 mark)
2. Which type of resource was used to solve the water problem—natural, human-made or human? Explain. (2 marks)
3. How does this case study demonstrate the principle of sustainable development? (2 marks)
Complete Answer Key with Explanations
This section provides detailed answers and explanations for every question in the worksheet, aligned with NCERT Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8 and CBSE marking guidelines. Use this answer key not just to check right or wrong, but to understand the reasoning behind each answer. For MCQs, we explain why the correct option is right and why distractors are wrong. For short and long answers, model responses show how to structure points, use examples and employ appropriate terminology. Compare your answers critically—did you miss a key concept, example or explanation? Self-assessment is a powerful learning tool. If you scored below 60 per cent on any section, revise that portion of the chapter from your NCERT textbook and Class 8 Social Science notes before attempting similar questions. For instant help with difficult questions, CBSETUTOR.ai allows you to photograph your doubt and receive step-by-step solutions from an AI tutor available around the clock, covering every CBSE subject for Classes 6 to 12 at just ₹999 monthly with a three-day trial. Section A Answers (MCQs):
1. (c) Bridge — A bridge is constructed by humans using natural materials, making it a human-made resource. Forests and rivers are natural resources; a coal mine extracts a natural resource but the mine infrastructure itself is human-made.
2. (b) Renewable resources — Resources that can regenerate through natural processes, like solar energy, wind, water and forests, are renewable.
3. (b) Human resources and technology — Natural resources become useful only when human skill, knowledge and technology transform them. Petroleum has no value until refined.
4. (d) Rapidly consume — Conservation follows the 3 R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Rapid consumption contradicts the conservation ethic.
5. (c) Balance present needs with future availability — Sustainable development, as defined by the Brundtland Commission, ensures intergenerational equity.
6. (c) Solar energy — Solar energy is inexhaustible and renews daily. Coal, petroleum and natural gas are non-renewable fossil fuels. Section B Answers (Fill in the Blanks):
1. resource
2. human-made
3. conservation
4. Natural resources
5. sustainable Section C Answers:
Match the Following: A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4, E-5
True or False: 1. False (they are natural resources), 2. True, 3. False (includes all people with potential, not only working population), 4. False (sustainable development prioritises environmental concerns), 5. True Section D Answers (Short Answer):
1. Natural resources are gifts of nature such as air, water, soil, minerals and forests that exist without human intervention. Human-made resources are created when humans modify natural materials using technology and skill, for example, buildings, roads, bridges, machinery and vehicles. A forest is natural; furniture made from its wood is human-made. 2. The three R's of conservation are: Reduce—minimising consumption and wastage of resources like water and electricity; Reuse—using items multiple times instead of discarding them, such as reusing bottles and bags; Recycle—processing used materials like paper, plastic and metal into new products, reducing the need to extract fresh raw materials and cutting pollution. 3. Human resources are the most important because people possess knowledge, skills and abilities to utilise other resources effectively. Without human ingenuity and labour, natural resources remain untapped and human-made resources cannot be created. For example, iron ore is useless until humans extract, refine and manufacture it into steel for construction and machinery. 4. Sustainable development means meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is important because unchecked resource exploitation leads to depletion, environmental degradation and climate change. Sustainable practices like renewable energy adoption and forest conservation ensure long-term resource availability and ecological balance. 5. Technology transforms the utility of resources by making them accessible and usable. For instance, coal existed for millennia but became valuable only after steam engine technology was invented. Similarly, silicon had limited use until semiconductor technology made it the foundation of modern electronics. Advancing technology can make previously useless substances into vital resources. Section E Answers (Long Answer):
1. Resources are classified by origin into three categories. Natural resources originate from nature without human intervention—examples include air, water, sunlight, minerals, soil, forests and wildlife. They form the base of all economic activity. Human-made resources are created when humans use their knowledge and technology to transform natural materials—examples include buildings, dams, roads, machines, vehicles and tools. These extend human capability and comfort. Human resources refer to people themselves—their skills, education, health and creativity. A skilled engineer, farmer or teacher represents human resources. Population becomes a resource when it acquires education and skills. All three categories are interdependent: human resources use technology to convert natural resources into human-made resources. For example, an engineer (human resource) uses iron ore (natural resource) to build a railway engine (human-made resource). 2. Conservation of resources is essential for several reasons. First, many resources like fossil fuels and minerals are non-renewable and will exhaust if used carelessly. Second, overuse damages ecosystems—deforestation causes soil erosion and biodiversity loss. Third, wasteful consumption harms future generations who will need these resources. Fourth, extraction and processing of resources cause pollution. Practical conservation steps include: (i) Reduce consumption—switch off lights and fans when not needed, fix leaking taps, avoid wasting food; (ii) Reuse items—use cloth bags instead of plastic, donate old clothes, refill bottles; (iii) Recycle materials—segregate waste, recycle paper, plastic and metal, compost organic waste; (iv) Adopt renewable energy—install solar panels, use public transport, plant trees; (v) Spread awareness—educate others about conservation, participate in community drives like tree plantation and river cleaning. Government policies, school curricula and individual actions together ensure resource sustainability. 3. Economic development and environmental conservation can coexist through the sustainable development model. Historically, rapid industrialisation depleted resources and polluted air, water and soil—Britain's Industrial Revolution and India's Bhopal gas tragedy exemplify this. However, development need not destroy the environment. Sustainable practices balance growth with conservation. For example, renewable energy projects like solar and wind farms generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases or depleting fossil fuels. Eco-tourism promotes economic activity while conserving forests and wildlife. Organic farming boosts agricultural income without chemical pollution. Japan and Scandinavian countries demonstrate that strict environmental laws, green technology and circular economy models enable high living standards with low ecological footprints. India's initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission, National Solar Mission and afforestation drives under CAMPA funds show commitment to this balance. Education plays a key role—when citizens value nature, they demand sustainable policies. Thus, with political will, technological innovation and public participation, economic development and environmental conservation reinforce each other rather than conflict. Case Study Answers:
1. Water is the natural resource discussed. (1 mark)
2. Human-made and human resources were used. The rainwater harvesting systems—rooftop structures and check dams—are human-made resources constructed using technology and materials. The community labour, government planners and panchayat leaders represent human resources who designed, funded and implemented the project. Both types worked together to harness the natural resource, water. (2 marks)
3. This case demonstrates sustainable development because it solved the present water scarcity problem (meeting current needs) while ensuring groundwater recharge for the future (securing future generations' needs). It improved livelihoods through agriculture and education without environmental harm. Community participation and use of local resources made the solution economically and ecologically sustainable. (2 marks)
Tips for Effective Worksheet Practice
Worksheets are most effective when used strategically as part of a regular study routine, not as a last-minute revision tool. Attempt this CBSE Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8 Resources worksheet in one sitting under timed conditions—60 minutes total—to simulate examination pressure. Keep your NCERT textbook and notes closed during the attempt; only after completing all sections should you refer to study material or the answer key. This honest self-assessment reveals your true preparation level. Mark your answers in a different colour pen to make checking easier. Calculate your score section-wise to identify weak areas: if you score poorly in MCQs, your conceptual foundation needs work; low marks in short answers indicate difficulty in expression; struggles with long answers or case studies suggest you need practice in analytical thinking and example usage. After checking answers, do not just note the score—write down three specific learnings or mistakes to avoid. Create a personal error log noting recurring mistakes, forgotten definitions or confused concepts. Revisit these points before the term exam. Pair worksheet practice with active reading: after each chapter, attempt a worksheet within two days while concepts are fresh. Review wrong answers after a week to check retention. For topics you find consistently difficult, seek help from teachers, reference Class 8 Social Science solutions, or use CBSETUOR.ai where you can upload photos of specific questions and receive instant, personalised explanations any time of day or night for just ₹999 per month covering all subjects from Class 6 to 12, with a risk-free three-day trial.
- Attempt the worksheet in one 60-minute session without interruptions to build exam stamina
- Use a pencil first if you want to erase and attempt again for deeper learning
- Time each section: MCQs 6 minutes, fill-blanks 5 minutes, matching 8 minutes, short answers 15 minutes, long answers 20 minutes, case study 8 minutes
- After checking, rewrite incorrect answers correctly in a separate notebook to reinforce learning
- Identify patterns—do you lose marks in definitions, examples, or explanations?
- Discuss difficult questions with classmates or study groups; teaching others reinforces your understanding
- Schedule worksheet practice weekly, not just before exams, to ensure continuous learning and retention
Additional Resources and Continuous Learning
Beyond this worksheet, leverage multiple resources to master CBSE Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8 Resources thoroughly. The NCERT textbook remains your primary reference—read it actively, underlining key terms and making margin notes. NCERT Exemplar for Class 8 Social Science offers additional higher-order questions for advanced practice. The official CBSE website (cbse.gov.in) publishes sample papers and marking schemes each year; download the latest ones to understand current exam patterns. Your school likely provides Class 8 Social Science notes—review these alongside textbook reading for consolidated understanding. Educational YouTube channels curated by experienced teachers offer video explanations of difficult topics; watch these to clarify doubts or visualise geographical concepts. Form or join a study group with three to five classmates; discuss chapter concepts, quiz each other and compare worksheet answers to gain diverse perspectives. Maintain a dedicated Social Science notebook where you compile definitions, flowcharts, maps and mnemonics. For personalised, on-demand academic support, CBSETUTOR.ai provides an AI-powered tutor accessible 24×7 on your phone. Simply photograph any question from this worksheet or your textbook and receive step-by-step solutions and concept explanations instantly. Unlike conventional coaching that operates on fixed schedules, CBSETUTOR.ai is available whenever you study—early morning, late night or during weekend revision sessions. It covers all CBSE subjects across Classes 6 to 12 at a single transparent price of ₹999 per month. Parents appreciate the value: no separate fees per subject, no commute time, and a three-day free trial so students can explore the platform risk-free before committing. This blend of textbook study, worksheet practice, peer discussion and intelligent digital support ensures comprehensive preparation for CBSE Class 8 Social Science examinations and builds a strong foundation for board exams in Classes 9 and 10.
- Read NCERT textbook Chapter 8 thoroughly before attempting worksheets; note in-text questions and exercises
- Download previous years' CBSE question papers from cbse.gov.in to identify frequently asked topics
- Watch concept videos for visual learners; diagrams and animations clarify resource classification and cycles
- Maintain a vocabulary list of terms like conservation, sustainable development, renewable, non-renewable, biotic, abiotic
- Practise map work if your syllabus includes locating resource-rich regions of India
- Use flashcards or mobile apps like Quizlet for quick revision of definitions and examples
- Regularly review corrected worksheets and error logs one week before term exams for focused revision
Frequently asked questions
What is the difficulty level and suggested time for this Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8 Resources worksheet?+
This worksheet is of moderate difficulty, aligned with CBSE Class 8 term exam standards. The suggested completion time is 60 minutes, divided as follows: MCQs—6 minutes, fill-in-the-blanks—5 minutes, match/true-false—8 minutes, short answers—15 minutes, long answers—20 minutes, case study—8 minutes. Timing yourself builds exam temperament.
How can I use the answer key effectively to improve my understanding?+
After attempting all questions honestly, compare your answers with the detailed answer key. For every mistake, read the explanation carefully to understand the correct concept. Note recurring errors—such as confusing renewable and non-renewable resources—in a separate error log. Rewrite incorrect answers in your own words to reinforce learning, and revisit these concepts in the NCERT textbook.
Which topics from Chapter 8 Resources are most important for CBSE exams?+
CBSE frequently tests the classification of resources (natural, human-made, human), the three R's of conservation (reduce, reuse, recycle), and the concept of sustainable development. Examples and real-life applications—like rainwater harvesting or renewable energy—also appear regularly. Ensure you can define these terms clearly and provide relevant examples.
How do I write good long answers for 5-mark questions in Social Science?+
Structure your answer with an introduction, three to four well-developed points with examples, and a brief conclusion. Use subheadings or bullet points for clarity. Incorporate NCERT terminology and real-world examples like government schemes or historical movements. Aim for 100-120 words. Compare your answer with model answers in the answer key to identify gaps and improve.
What are the three types of resources explained in NCERT Class 8 Chapter 8?+
The three types are: (1) Natural resources—gifts of nature like air, water, soil, minerals and forests; (2) Human-made resources—items created by humans using natural materials, such as buildings, roads, machines; (3) Human resources—people with skills, knowledge and ability to work. All three are interdependent in economic activities.
Why is sustainable development important, and how is it tested in exams?+
Sustainable development balances present needs with the ability of future generations to meet their needs, preventing resource depletion and environmental harm. CBSE exams test this through definitions, examples (like renewable energy adoption, afforestation) and analytical questions asking you to evaluate real-life cases. Expect 3-5 mark questions on this topic.
How can CBSETUTOR.ai help if I am stuck on a worksheet question?+
CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 AI-powered tutoring. Simply photograph the question from this worksheet or any textbook page and upload it. You receive step-by-step solutions, concept explanations and tips instantly. It covers all CBSE subjects for Classes 6-12 at ₹999 per month, with a three-day free trial. Perfect for late-night doubts or last-minute revision.
What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?+
Renewable resources can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy, wind, water and forests. Non-renewable resources exist in finite quantities and take millions of years to form, like coal, petroleum and natural gas. Once exhausted, they cannot be replaced within human timescales. Conservation is especially critical for non-renewable resources.
Should I memorise all answers or focus on understanding concepts?+
Focus on understanding concepts and the logic behind classifications and processes. Memorise key definitions, the three R's, and 2-3 examples for each resource type. CBSE examiners reward conceptual clarity and the ability to apply knowledge to new situations over rote reproduction. Practising worksheets regularly builds both understanding and recall.
How many times should I practise this worksheet before my exam?+
Attempt this worksheet at least twice. First attempt under timed conditions without help to assess your current level. Review the answer key and revise weak areas from the NCERT textbook. After a week, attempt the worksheet again to measure improvement and consolidate learning. Additional practice with similar worksheets from NCERT Exemplar or sample papers further strengthens preparation.
Related resources
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