What is the reason why tales and stories have been given an important place in the textbooks of Environmental Studies ? Which of the following may be the most appropriate reason ?

(A) At the primary level, the teachers of Environmental Studies narrate tales and stories with interest, that is why they have been given an important place.

(B) The use of stories has often been considered important in developing children’s sensitivity to environmental issues.

(C) Because children easily relate themselves to the characters of the story, that is why they have been given an important place in the textbooks.

(D) Tales and stories are liked by the society, that is why they have been given an important place in the textbooks of the environment.

The correct answer is (B) and (C).

Explanation:

In Environmental Studies (EVS) at the primary level, stories and narratives serve as powerful pedagogical tools to make learning contextual, engaging, and meaningful for young learners.

Let us analyze the given statements to understand why they are appropriate:

1. Statement (B): Stories help in developing children's sensitivity toward environmental issues. Through narrative contexts, children learn empathy, understand real-world problems, and feel connected to nature and social surroundings.

2. Statement (C): Children easily relate themselves to the characters, emotions, and scenarios present in stories. This personal connection helps them absorb concepts naturally rather than memorizing abstract facts.

Why other statements are inappropriate:

• Statement (A) focuses merely on the teacher's interest in narrating stories rather than the child-centric learning objectives.

• Statement (D) mentions society's general liking for stories, which is not the primary educational or pedagogical reason for integrating them into curriculum textbooks.

Therefore, statements (B) and (C) provide the most appropriate reasons for including tales and stories in EVS textbooks.