Unit 4 of the Class 8 English textbook "Poorvi" focuses on the theme of Environment. Through two prose pieces and one poem, it explores humanity's deep connection with nature, the resilience of life, the cycle of agriculture, and the importance of letting the Earth rest.
Six-year-old Rakesh lives with his grandfather on the outskirts of Mussoorie. One day, he buys cherries and plants the last seed in a soft corner of the garden. Over the years, the seed sprouts and faces numerous threats: a goat eats its leaves, a grass-cutter cuts it in half, and heavy winter snow bends it. Despite these challenges, the cherry tree survives and grows. By the time Rakesh is nine, the tree blossoms and bears its first cherries. The story highlights the resilience of nature and the joy of nurturing life.
Velu, a hardworking farmer, is devastated by a severe drought that leaves his fields dry, cracked, and barren. Frustrated and dejected, he seeks answers from the weather office but finds no hope. While resting under a large tree, he meets an old woman. She gently explains that the drought is Nature's way of letting the Earth rest after years of continuous cultivation. Velu realizes the wisdom in her words. Soon after, a cool breeze blows, clouds gather, and it begins to rain, bringing joy back to Velu.
Fallowing is a sustainable land management practice where agricultural land is left unsown for one or more vegetative cycles. This allows the soil to recover its nutrients, retain moisture, and control pests naturally.
Determiners are words placed before nouns to clarify what the noun refers to.
Words that sound the same but have different spellings and meanings.