GWO Sample Paper For Class 9
GWO Sample Paper For Class 9
Sample Paper
Pattern and Marking Scheme
Grade Topic/Section No. of Marks per Total
Questions Question Marks
Grade 9 Green Champ 40 3 120
Green Challenger 10 6 60
Grand Total 50 180
The total duration of the exam is 60 minutes. There's a negative marking of 1/3rd marks for every wrong
answer.
Syllabus
Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, Sustainable Cities and Communities,
Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life Below Water, Life on Land, Zero
Hunger
2. A community initiated a campaign to clean a polluted river. After a year, water quality
improved, and fish species returned. What is the most likely reason for the return of aquatic
life?
4. In an experiment, water samples were collected from two sources: a river and a lake. The
samples were tested for pH, dissolved oxygen levels, and bacterial content. Which parameter
is essential to determine water quality and safety for consumption?
A. pH level
B. Dissolved oxygen levels
C. Bacterial content
5. A city is facing water scarcity due to changing rainfall patterns caused by climate change. As
an environmental scientist, you are tasked with devising a sustainable water management
plan. Which of the following approaches would be the most effective in ensuring a stable
water supply for the city?
a. Building more reservoirs and dams to capture rainwater during heavy rainfall.
b. Importing water from neighbouring cities to meet the immediate demand.
c. Drilling deeper wells to access groundwater, irrespective of environmental consequences.
d. Encouraging water conservation practices, implementing rainwater harvesting systems,
and promoting the use of recycled water for non-potable purposes.
6. A factory is discharging wastewater containing heavy metals into a nearby river. The heavy
metals are contaminating the drinking water supply for a downstream community. What type
of water purification technology could be used to remove the heavy metals from the
wastewater before it is discharged into the river?
7. An off-grid cabin in a remote area needs a reliable source of electricity. The cabin owner has
to choose between a diesel generator and a small solar power system. Which system would
be the most cost-effective in the long run, considering environmental impact?
8. A homeowner is considering investing in a tidal energy system for their coastal property. What
are the key factors they should consider before making this decision, and how can they
maximise the system's efficiency and environmental impact?
a. Factors to consider: Tidal patterns, environmental impact on marine life, and system
maintenance.
Maximising efficiency: Positioning the turbines in areas with strong tidal currents and
conducting regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and minimise
environmental impact.
b. Factors to consider: Availability of sunlight and wind speed.
Maximising efficiency: Installing solar panels alongside tidal turbines to capture energy
during sunlight hours and using noise barriers to reduce sound pollution.
c. Factors to consider: Rainfall patterns, groundwater levels, and seismic activity.
Maximising efficiency: Implementing rainwater harvesting systems to utilise freshwater
efficiently and monitoring seismic activity to ensure the system's stability.
d. Factors to consider: Soil quality, slope of the land, and proximity to urban centres.
Maximising efficiency: Utilising geothermal heat pumps to enhance soil quality and using
natural landscaping techniques to promote biodiversity.
9. A city heavily relies on coal-fired power plants for electricity. Despite its economic benefits,
residents are experiencing increased respiratory issues due to air pollution. Local authorities
are considering a shift to renewable energy sources. Which of the following would be the
most effective long-term solution to address both environmental concerns and energy needs?
a. Building more coal-fired power plants with advanced pollution control technology.
b. Encouraging residents to use energy-efficient appliances.
c. Implementing stricter emission standards for existing coal plants.
d. Transitioning to a mix of solar, wind, and hydroelectric power sources.
10. A rural community plans to transition from traditional biomass stoves to cleaner, more efficient
cookstoves. Considering all of the environmental factors, which statement best summarises
the overall impact of adopting cleaner cookstoves?
a. Cleaner cookstoves improve indoor air quality, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance
community health and well-being.
b. Cleaner cookstoves have minimal impact on indoor air quality and community health.
c. Cleaner cookstoves are less affordable and practical compared to traditional biomass
stoves.
d. Cleaner cookstoves have a negative impact on the environment due to increased energy
consumption.
12. A company is considering investing in a large hydropower project that could displace several
local communities. What ethical considerations should the company take into account before
proceeding with the project?
13. In an experiment, researchers planted native tree species in two different locations: one in a
preserved forest and another in an urban area with limited green spaces. What would be a
potential hypothesis for this experiment?
a. Native tree species grow better in urban areas due to higher pollution levels
b. Tree growth is similar in both locations due to controlled environmental conditions
c. Native tree species thrive better in preserved forests due to suitable habitats and reduced
disturbances
d. Urban areas with limited green spaces promote biodiversity among native tree species
14. Imagine you are a city planner. How would you design a new urban development project to
ensure the preservation of green spaces and natural habitats while meeting the housing
needs of the growing population?
15. You are in the market to purchase a new laptop. You have the choice between a non-certified
laptop that costs $800 and a certified eco-friendly laptop that costs $950. The certified laptop
is 30% more energy-efficient. Based on the initial cost and energy efficiency, which laptop is
more financially responsible over its expected lifespan of 5 years?
16. In a survey, two refrigerators of different efficiency ratings are compared. Which parameter
should be measured to evaluate their overall performance, efficiency, and stability?
A. Energy star rating
B. Temperature fluctuation range
C. Colour and design
17. Coastal City X is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of hurricanes due to
climate change. The city is considering building seawalls to protect its coastline. Which of the
following long-term strategies, in addition to seawalls, could be implemented to mitigate the
impacts of climate change on the city?
19. A city government is planning to invest in public transportation to reduce carbon emissions.
Based on the environmental and economic impacts of this initiative, which of the following
statements is most accurate?
20. A community is experiencing increased forest fires due to prolonged droughts caused by
climate change. As a disaster management expert, which of the following strategies would
you recommend to reduce the impact of forest fires on the community?
a. Clearing all trees and vegetation near residential areas to create firebreaks.
b. Implementing controlled burns during periods of low fire risk to remove excess vegetation
and prevent large-scale wildfires.
c. Installing sprinkler systems on rooftops and encouraging residents to water their lawns
frequently.
d. Ignoring the issue as forest fires are a natural part of the ecosystem.
a. City A b. City B
c. City C d. City D
22. A coastal region heavily relies on seafood for its economy and nutrition. Due to climate
change, fish populations are shifting to cooler waters. What practical steps can the community
take to address the issue and ensure a sustainable seafood supply?
23. In a study of marine dead zones, researchers found that an area in the Gulf of Mexico had
extremely low oxygen levels. Which of the following is a likely consequence of such dead
zones on marine organisms?
24. Climate change, characterised by rising global temperatures and changing weather patterns,
profoundly influences marine ecosystems. Based on these changes, which of the following
statements accurately describes the impact of climate change on marine life?
a. Marine species migrate to colder regions, disrupting local ecosystems as they seek cooler
environments due to rising sea temperatures.
b. Marine species adapt quickly to changing temperatures, minimising any impact on their
distribution and ecosystem interactions.
c. Rising sea temperatures can force species to move to different habitats, affecting food
chains, biodiversity, and the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.
d. Most marine animals are cold-blooded so they remain unaffected by climate change, as
they can adjust to any environmental changes without significant consequences on their
distribution.
a. The species with a high reproductive rate, because it produces more offspring.
b. The species with low reproductive rate, because it produces fewer offspring and matures
slowly.
c. Both species are equally vulnerable to overfishing.
d. Neither species is vulnerable to overfishing.
26. In an experiment studying the effectiveness of marine protected areas, researchers compared
fish populations inside and outside the protected zones. What result would indicate the
success of marine protected areas in promoting fish populations?
27. In an experiment, two plots of land were treated differently to study the impact on soil quality.
Plot A received organic compost, while Plot B received chemical fertilisers. After a year, soil
samples were analysed. What would be the expected observation?
a. Plot A's soil has higher organic matter content and microbial activity than Plot B.
b. Plot B's soil has higher organic matter content and microbial activity than Plot A.
c. Both plots show similar soil quality due to the treatments.
d. Both plots show severe soil degradation due to external factors.
28. Researchers conducted an experiment to assess the effectiveness of different soil erosion
control methods. They implemented terracing, cover cropping, and mulching on three
separate plots of land. After one year, the researchers measured soil erosion rates in each
plot. Which method would they likely find most effective based on sustainable erosion
control?
a. Terracing
b. Mulching
c. Cover cropping
d. No method, as erosion is a natural process
30. An individual is trying to reduce their carbon footprint through their diet. Which action would
have the most significant impact on reducing carbon emissions?
31. A research team conducted an experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of cover crops in
reducing soil erosion and enhancing soil fertility. They planted different cover crop varieties
and analysed soil erosion rates and nutrient levels. What findings would support the use of
cover crops as a climate-smart technique?
a. Higher soil erosion rates and reduced nutrient levels in plots with cover crops.
b. Lower soil erosion rates and improved nutrient levels in plots with cover crops.
c. Similar soil erosion rates and nutrient levels in plots with and without cover crops.
d. Lower soil erosion rates and nutrient levels in plots without cover crops.
32. The graph below demonstrates a 50% reduction in post-harvest food losses achieved by a
cooperative of farmers through enhanced packaging and transportation practices. What
specific strategies in packaging and transportation could account for this significant success?
33. Agricultural extension officers are advising a community on incorporating crop rotation and
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) into their farming systems.
Which of the following statements is true regarding these practices?
a. Crop rotation and IPM are outdated methods with no impact on modern farming practices.
b. Crop rotation depletes soil nutrients, and IPM is only effective for specific pests.
c. Crop rotation is limited to specific crop varieties, and IPM is only suitable for large-scale
agricultural operations.
d. Crop rotation and IPM collectively improve soil health, minimise pest infestations, and
enhance productivity and sustainability.
Consider the Case study given below and answer the following question:
FreshHarvest embraced biodegradable materials derived from plant sources, minimising plastic use
significantly. They redesigned packaging formats, introducing durable, reusable containers and
innovative designs like vacuum-sealed compostable bags. Collaborating with local recycling facilities,
they ensured efficient recycling processes, coupled with clear consumer guidance. The company
engaged customers actively through a "Green Rewards" program, encouraging the return of used
packaging for incentives.
Results and Impact:
Within a year, FreshHarvest reduced plastic waste by 45%, fostering a 20% rise in customer
satisfaction and loyalty. Their commitment enhanced the brand’s reputation, attracting eco-conscious
consumers and earning industry accolades.
35. Which of the following materials could be considered a suitable biodegradable alternative in
sustainable packaging for FreshHarvest?
A. Polyethylene
B. PLA (Polylactic Acid)
C. Cellulose-based plastics
D. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
36. What do you think might be the main challenges faced by FreshHarvest in implementing
sustainable packaging solutions?
Consider the case study given below and answer the following question:
Background:
In a coastal region, sea turtles, including species such as loggerheads, green turtles, and
leatherbacks, are facing significant threats due to habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal poaching.
To address this issue, a conservation program was initiated, involving local communities, marine
biologists, and environmental organisations. The program aimed to protect nesting sites, raise
awareness, and implement measures to safeguard these endangered sea turtles.
Objectives:
-Nesting Site Protection: Secure nesting sites to ensure safe hatching and protect eggs from
poaching and predation.
-Public Awareness: Raise awareness among local communities and tourists about the importance of
sea turtle conservation and the role of each individual in protecting these species.
-Research and Monitoring: Conduct research to study the nesting behaviours, migration patterns,
and threats faced by sea turtles. Implement monitoring systems to track population trends.
Conclusion:
The collaborative efforts of the conservation program, combining community engagement, public
awareness, and scientific research, resulted in a significant positive impact on sea turtle populations.
By addressing the core issues of habitat protection, awareness, and research, the coastal regions
managed to secure a future for these endangered sea turtles, ensuring their survival for generations
to come.
38. In an experiment studying the effect of pollution on sea turtle nesting, researchers discovered
a correlation between pollution levels and nesting success. How can they establish a cause-
and-effect relationship between pollution and nesting success?
39. How can the preservation of sea turtle habitats indirectly benefit other marine species?
a. EV-1 b. EV-2
c. EV-3 d. EV-4
42. Country A and Country B have similar populations and energy consumption patterns. Country
A generates 70% of its electricity from coal, while Country B generates 70% from renewable
sources. If both countries aim to reduce their carbon emissions by 50%, which country would
need to make a more significant change in its energy infrastructure to achieve this goal?
a. Country A
b. Country B
c. Both countries need to make equal changes.
d. Neither country needs to make changes.
43. Refer to the bar graph below, which represents the mode of transportation in four different
cities. Analysing the provided graph, which cities can be considered the most sustainable in
terms of transportation, environmental impact, and commuting efficiency?
Energy
Energy Environmental
Laptop Consumption
Star Impact Score
(kWh)
a. Model W b. Model X
c. Model Y d. Model Z
45. In a study comparing two carbon offset projects, Project X focuses on reforestation, while
Project Y invests in renewable energy projects. The amount of carbon dioxide equivalent
(CO2e) sequestered over a ten-year period of both projects is given below. Based on the data
provided, which of the following statements is true?
A. Project X contributes more to mitigating climate change by reducing atmospheric CO2
levels, thus aiding in global efforts to combat global warming.
B. Project Y contributes more by enhancing local biodiversity and ecosystem health,
promoting a sustainable environment for flora and fauna.
C. Both Project X and Project Y improve air quality in their respective regions.
D. Both Project X and Project Y reduce the resilience of ecosystem to the impacts of climate
46. Examine the diagram below representing the symbiotic relationship between algae and coral.
Considering the information provided, which of the following environmental factors could lead
to the expulsion of algae and consequently result in coral bleaching?
A. Higher fish population
B. Decreased water acidity
C. Elevated water temperatures and stress
D. Elevated levels of CO2
47. A group of scientists studying the human impact on terrestrial ecosystems made the following
statements:
I. Deforestation contributes to a loss of biodiversity and disrupts the natural habitat of
various species.
II. Urbanisation often leads to soil pollution and alters the natural drainage patterns,
affecting nearby ecosystems.
III. Introducing non-native species can enhance biodiversity and strengthen ecosystems.
IV. Increased agricultural practices always result in improved soil quality and long-term
ecosystem stability.
Which scientist among them is correct?
48. Examine the graph below illustrating the correlation between crop yield and average rainfall
for the specified year. Based on your analysis, address the following questions:
A. What factors might contribute to the unpredictability observed in the data?
B. What technique would you recommend to mitigate these outcomes and enhance
agricultural resilience?
Consider the case study given below and answer the following question:
The city of Cape Town, South Africa, faced a severe water shortage in 2018. The city's dams were
running low, and the city was on the verge of running out of water. The city implemented a number of
water conservation measures, including:
-Restricting water usage to 50 litres per person per day.
-Banning watering lawns and gardens.
-Closing public swimming pools.
-Collecting rainwater.
-Desalinating seawater.
As a result of these measures, the city was able to avoid running out of water. The water shortage
also raised awareness of the importance of water conservation, and the city has continued to
implement water conservation measures even after the drought ended.
49. Identify the significant challenge(s) faced by Cape Town in achieving clean water and
sanitation during the water crisis.
A. Climate change
B. Population growth
C. Social inequality
50. In the context of water conservation, what is the significance of desalination, and how did it
contribute to Cape Town's water security during the crisis?