Student name Sara Danish y8c Form
Year 8 Assessment: The Physical Geography of India
Instructions: Read the passage below carefully and then answer the questions that follow.
India’s Diverse Landscape: A Natural Wonder
India, a vast and diverse country in South Asia, spans approximately 3.28 million square
kilometers, making it the seventh-largest country in the world. With a landscape as varied
as its cultures, India is bordered by the towering Himalayas to the north and the vast Indian
Ocean to the south, while sharing its western frontier with Pakistan and its eastern borders
with China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
The Mighty Himalayas: Nature’s Northern Shield
The Himalayas serve as India’s natural northern boundary, housing some of the world’s
highest peaks, including Mount Everest (though located in Nepal). These colossal mountains
act as a climate barrier, preventing cold winds from Central Asia from sweeping into the
Indian subcontinent.
The Indo-Gangetic Plain: India’s Breadbasket
Just south of the Himalayas lies the Indo-Gangetic Plain, one of the most fertile regions
globally. This vast expanse is crisscrossed by the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus Rivers,
ensuring a steady water supply for agriculture. Home to millions, this region thrives on
farming, making it a key hub for food production.
The Deccan Plateau: Rich in Resources
Stretching across southern India, the Deccan Plateau stands elevated, rich in minerals and
known for its varied climate. Flanked by the Western and Eastern Ghats, these mountain
ranges play a vital role in directing monsoon rainfall, influencing regional agriculture and
water supply.
The Coastal Plains and Islands: A Maritime Advantage
India’s extensive coastline, spanning over 7,500 kilometers, supports thriving fishing
communities and major trading ports. The country also boasts scenic island groups like the
Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and the Lakshadweep Islands in the
Arabian Sea, adding to its geographical diversity.
A Climate of Extremes
India’s climate varies significantly, from the icy winters of the north to the tropical
conditions of the south. The annual monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy
rains crucial for agriculture but also poses challenges like flooding.
Section A: Multiple-Choice Questions (circle the correct answers)
1. What is the name of the mountain range that forms the northern boundary of India? (1)
a) The Rockies b) The Andes
c) The Himalayas d) The Alps
2. Which of the following rivers does NOT flow through the Indo-Gangetic Plain? (1)
a) Ganges b) Brahmaputra
c) Amazon d) Indus
3. Which of these geographical features is located in southern India? (1)
a) The Himalayas b) The Indo-Gangetic Plain
c) The Deccan Plateau d) The Thar Desert
4. What is the main reason the Himalayas influence India’qs climate? (1)
a) They allow cold winds to enter India.
b) They block cold winds from Central Asia.
c) They increase the temperature in the Deccan Plateau.
d) They cause India to receive no rainfall.
5. Which of the following islands belong to India? (1)
a) Andaman and Nicobar Islands b) Hawaiian Islands
c) Madagascar d) Fiji
Section B: Short Answer Questions
6. Describe the importance of the Indo-Gangetic Plain for India’s population. (2)
ANS: The Indo-GangeticPlain is very important for India because its good soil and rivers
help grow many crops and support many people
7. What roles do the Western and Eastern Ghats play in India’s climate? (2)
ANS: The Western Ghats bring heavy rain by blocking monsoon winds, while the Eastern
Ghats have less effect on rainfall.
8. Explain why monsoon rains are both beneficial and problematic for India. (2)
ANS: Monsoon rains are good for crops and water supply but can cause floods, landslides,
and damage to roads and buildings.
9. How does the location of India’s coastline benefit the country economically? (2)
ANS: India’s coastline helps with trade, provides ports for shipping, fishing, and attracts
tourism, boosting the economy.
10. Identify and describe two major geographical features that influence India’s climate. (2)
ANS: HIMALAYAS: They block cold winds and cause monsoon rains in the south.
THAR DESERT: It creates hot, dry weather and affects winds.
Section C: Map of India
11. From a copy of the map below decide which physical feature can be found at the
different locations. (5)
Deccan Plateau, The Himalayas, Indus River, Arabian seam Thar Desert
A – INDUS RIVER
B – HIMALAYAS
C – THAR DESERT
D – ARABIAN SEA
E – DECCAN PLATEAU
