a) Write a short paragraph on the causes of deforestation. [2] b) Write a dialogue between two friends about the importance of saving electricity. [3]

a) Causes of Deforestation

Deforestation is the permanent destruction of forests to make the land available for other uses. There are several causes of deforestation, both natural and human-induced. Natural causes include wildfires, floods, and diseases that can kill trees and destroy large areas of forest. However, the majority of deforestation is caused by human activities. Agriculture is one of the leading causes, as forests are cleared to create space for farming and livestock grazing. Logging for timber and paper production also contributes significantly, as trees are cut down to meet the global demand for wood products. Urbanization and infrastructure development lead to the destruction of forests to build roads, houses, and other structures. Mining activities also result in deforestation, as trees are removed to access minerals and other resources beneath the forest floor. Additionally, population growth increases the demand for land, leading to further deforestation. Climate change and government policies that encourage forest conversion can also accelerate deforestation. These factors combined have led to the loss of vast forest areas worldwide, threatening biodiversity and contributing to environmental degradation.

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b) Dialogue: Importance of Saving Electricity

Characters:

• Rohan: A concerned student
• Sita: Rohan’s friend

Scene: Rohan and Sita are sitting in a park after school.

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Rohan: Hey Sita, have you noticed how often we experience power cuts these days? Sita: Yes, Rohan. It’s really frustrating, especially during exams when we need electricity for study. Rohan: That’s true. But I think there’s a bigger issue here. We should also think about saving electricity, not just complaining about cuts. Sita: Why? What’s the problem with using electricity? Rohan: Well, electricity is a limited resource. If we waste it, we’ll face more shortages in the future. Plus, generating electricity often harms the environment. Sita: How does it harm the environment? Rohan: Many power plants burn fossil fuels like coal and oil, which release harmful gases into the air. These gases contribute to global warming and climate change. Sita: Oh, I didn’t know that. So, saving electricity helps the environment too? Rohan: Exactly! By saving electricity, we reduce the demand for power plants, which means less pollution and a healthier planet. Also, it saves money for our families. Sita: That makes sense. How can we save electricity at home? Rohan: There are many ways. We can turn off lights and fans when we leave a room. Using energy-efficient bulbs and appliances also helps. And we should unplug devices when they’re not in use. Sita: Good points! I’ll start doing that. What about at school? Rohan: At school, we can switch off lights in empty classrooms and use natural light during the day. Also, we can encourage teachers and students to be more conscious about electricity usage. Sita: That’s a great idea. I’ll talk to my friends about it too. Rohan: That’s the spirit, Sita! Small steps can make a big difference. Sita: You’re right. Let’s all do our part to save electricity and protect our environment. Rohan: Absolutely! Together, we can make a difference.