NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science (Curiosity) Chapter 6: Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change (NCERT 2026–27)

These Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 solutions cover Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change from the new NCF-2023 textbook (2026–27). The chapter explains how the human body grows from infancy to adulthood, what happens during adolescence and puberty, the physical, emotional and reproductive changes that occur, and how to stay healthy and responsible during these years. Every question of the “Let Us Enhance Our Learning” exercise is reproduced verbatim and answered step by step below.

Class: 7 Subject: Science Book: Curiosity Chapter: 6 Topic: Adolescence & Puberty Session: 2026–27
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Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 Solutions – Overview

The journey of human life can be divided into stages — infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age. Until about 10–12 years of age, most changes are simply in height and weight. After this, the body begins to prepare for adulthood, marking the onset of adolescence (usually between 10 and 19 years). During this stage, boys and girls undergo significant physical, emotional, behavioural and reproductive changes. Some changes — like a change in voice, facial hair in boys or the development of breasts in girls — are visible secondary sexual characteristics, while others, such as the maturation of reproductive parts and the onset of the menstrual cycle in girls, are internal. The chapter teaches that these changes vary from person to person, are completely normal, and are mainly controlled by chemicals called hormones. It also explains how good nutrition, personal and menstrual hygiene, physical activity, a balanced social life and saying ‘NO’ to harmful substances make adolescence a healthy and joyful experience.

Key Concepts & Definitions

Adolescence: the period of change from childhood to adulthood, generally beginning around 10 years of age and usually lasting until about 19 years.

Puberty: the stage in which the body of an adolescent undergoes external and internal changes to develop into an adult capable of reproduction.

Secondary sexual characteristics: features that help distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction — e.g. change in voice, facial and chest hair in boys, development of breasts in girls.

Voice box (larynx): a structure in the throat that helps us speak; its growth in adolescent boys makes the voice hoarse and may appear as a bump called the Adam’s apple.

Acne & pimples: a skin condition (acne) in which small reddish pimples appear, caused by increased oily secretions clogging skin pores during adolescence.

Menstrual cycle: a natural internal process in adolescent girls that recurs generally every 28–30 days (range 21–35 days); the phase with blood discharge is called menstruation and lasts about three to seven days.

Hormones: certain chemicals produced in different parts of the body that regulate growth, development, mood and behaviour, and cause most changes of puberty.

“Let Us Enhance Our Learning” — NCERT Solutions

All questions below are reproduced verbatim from the NCERT Curiosity textbook; the answers are original and exam-ready.

1. Ramesh, an 11-year-old boy, developed a few pimples on his face. His mother told him that this is because of ongoing biological changes in his body. (i) What could be the possible reasons for the development of these pimples on his face? (ii) What can he do to get some relief from these pimples?

ANSWER (i) Ramesh is entering adolescence. During this stage, the skin produces more oily secretions than before. This extra oil can clog the tiny pores of the skin and lead to infection, causing small reddish pimples (acne) to appear, most commonly on the face. So the pimples are a normal sign of the biological changes of puberty, not a disease. (ii) He can get relief by maintaining good personal hygiene — washing his face gently with clean water a few times a day to keep it free of excess oil and dirt, eating a balanced, nutritious diet, drinking enough water, and avoiding squeezing or picking the pimples (which can worsen the infection). If the problem is severe, he should consult elders or a doctor rather than worry, since acne is usually temporary and harmless.

2. Which of the following food groups would be a better option for adolescents and why? (i) A meal mainly of fried, sugary snacks and soft drinks. (ii) A balanced meal of cereals/millets, pulses, milk products, fruits and green vegetables.

ANSWER Option (ii) — a balanced meal of cereals/millets, pulses, milk products, fruits and green vegetables — is the better choice for adolescents. Adolescence is a period of rapid growth and development, so the body needs a complete range of nutrients. Cereals and millets give carbohydrates for energy, pulses and milk products supply proteins for growth and strength, milk and green vegetables provide calcium and iron for strong bones and healthy blood, and fruits and vegetables give vitamins and minerals. Fried, sugary snacks and soft drinks are high in fats and sugar but lack these essential nutrients, so they do not support healthy growth and can harm health.

3. Unscramble the underlined word in the following sentences: (i) The discharge of blood in adolescent girls which generally occurs every 28–30 days is nstmnoiaretu. (ii) The hoarseness in the voice of adolescent boys is due to enlarged iceov xob. (iii) Secondary sexual characteristics are natural signs that the body is preparing for adulthood and mark the onset of urtypeb. (iv) We should say NO to lahoclo and srugd as they are addictive.

ANSWER (i) nstmnoiaretu → menstruation (ii) iceov xob → voice box (iii) urtypeb → puberty (iv) lahoclo and srugd → alcohol and drugs

4. Shalu told her friend, “Adolescence brings only physical changes, like growing taller or developing body hair.” Is she correct? What would you change in this description of adolescence?

ANSWER No, Shalu is not fully correct. Physical changes such as growing taller and developing body hair are only one part of adolescence. Adolescence brings several kinds of changes together: physical changes (height, weight, body hair, change in voice), changes that indicate reproductive capability (maturation of reproductive parts and, in girls, the onset of the menstrual cycle), and emotional and behavioural changes such as mood swings and stronger emotions. So I would correct her statement to say that adolescence brings physical, biological, emotional and behavioural changes, all of which are normal and a natural part of growing up.

5. During a discussion in the class, some of the students raised the following points. What questions would you ask them to check the correctness of these points? (i) Adolescents do not need to worry about behavioural changes. (ii) If someone tries a harmful substance once, they can stop anytime they want.

ANSWER (i) I would ask: “If adolescents experience strong emotions and mood swings during this stage, isn’t it important to understand and manage these behavioural changes thoughtfully? Can ignoring them lead to wrong decisions or affect their relationships and well-being?” This shows that behavioural changes do matter and should be handled responsibly. (ii) I would ask: “If harmful substances like tobacco, alcohol and drugs are addictive, doesn’t even one try create a strong urge to take them again and again? How can a person be sure they will be able to stop, when many people who started with ‘just one time’ became addicted?” This shows that the safe choice is to say ‘NO’ the first time and every time.

6. Adolescents sometimes experience mood swings. On some days, they feel very energetic and happy, while on other days, they may feel low. What other behavioural changes are associated with this age?

ANSWER Besides mood swings, adolescents often experience stronger emotions than in childhood. They may feel increased sensitivity, become more self-conscious about their appearance, and develop a stronger sense of independence and identity. They may also feel a deeper interest in new areas or hobbies, become more curious and excited about the world around them, feel attracted to their peers and tend to mimic their behaviour, and show greater willingness to take part in social activities such as helping the needy and the disadvantaged. Understanding how these emotions influence behaviour helps adolescents make better choices and respond to situations thoughtfully.

7. While using a toilet, Mohini noticed that used sanitary pads were scattered near the bin. She got upset and shared her feelings with her friends. They discussed the importance of menstrual hygiene and healthy sanitary habits. What menstrual hygiene and sanitary habits would you suggest to your friends?

ANSWER I would suggest the following menstrual hygiene and sanitary habits: • Use clean sanitary products such as sanitary pads or reusable cloth pads designed for the purpose, and change them regularly. • Keep the body clean during menstruation for both comfort and health. • Dispose of used sanitary pads properly by wrapping them in newspaper and putting them inside a dustbin — never throwing them scattered around — to ensure community health and environmental cleanliness. • Prefer biodegradable, environment-friendly sanitary pads where possible. • Treat menstruation as a natural process, free of fear or shame, and help reduce any stigma so that everyone supports good menstrual hygiene.

8. Mary and Manoj were classmates and good friends. On turning 11, Mary developed a little bulge on the front of her neck. She visited the doctor who gave her medication and asked to take iodine-rich diet. Similarly, a bump was developed on the front of Manoj’s neck when he turned 12. However, the doctor told him that it was a part of growing up. According to you, what could be the possible reason for advising Mary and Manoj differently?

ANSWER The two bumps, though both on the front of the neck, had different causes, so the doctor advised them differently. In Manoj’s case, the bump was the Adam’s apple — the growth of the voice box that occurs normally in adolescent boys during puberty. It is a natural secondary sexual characteristic and part of growing up, so it needs no treatment. In Mary’s case, the bulge was most likely a swelling caused by an iodine deficiency (a health problem, not the Adam’s apple, which is not prominent in girls). That is why the doctor gave her medication and advised an iodine-rich diet to correct the deficiency.

9. During adolescence, the boys and girls undergo certain physical changes, a few of which are given below. (i) Change in voice (ii) Development of breasts (iii) Growth of moustache (iv) Growth of facial hair (v) Pimples on the face (vi) Growth of hair in the pubic region (vii) Growth of hair in armpits Categorise these changes in the table given below:

ANSWER
Observed only in boysObserved only in girlsCommon in boys and girls
(i) Change in voice (the prominent, hoarse change)
(iii) Growth of moustache
(iv) Growth of facial hair		 (ii) Development of breasts (v) Pimples on the face
(vi) Growth of hair in the pubic region
(vii) Growth of hair in armpits
Note: The voice box grows slightly in girls too, but the marked, hoarse change in voice (with the visible Adam’s apple, moustache and facial hair) is characteristic of boys.

10. Prepare a poster mentioning the tips for adolescents to live a healthy lifestyle.

ANSWER A poster titled “Healthy Adolescence, Happy You!” could include these tips: • Eat a balanced diet — include cereals/millets, pulses, milk products, fruits and green vegetables for proteins, calcium, iron and vitamins; avoid too much fried and sugary food. • Maintain personal and menstrual hygiene — keep the body clean, especially the armpits and pubic region, and dispose of sanitary pads properly. • Stay physically active — exercise, play games and sports to build stamina, stay fit and boost your mood. • Keep a balanced social life — be polite and respectful, use social media responsibly, and seek guidance from elders. • Say ‘NO’ to harmful substances like tobacco, alcohol and drugs — the first time and every time. • Stay informed and ask for help — talk to trusted parents and teachers about any doubts or problems.

Extra Practice Questions

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1. Define adolescence and state the usual age range during which it occurs.

ANSWERAdolescence is the period of change from childhood to adulthood. It generally begins around the age of 10 years and usually lasts until about 19 years.

Q2. What is the Adam’s apple? In whom is it more prominent?

ANSWERThe Adam’s apple is a bump that appears in the throat region due to the growth of the voice box during adolescence. It is more prominent in boys, where the enlarged voice box also makes the voice hoarse.

Q3. Why is menstruation called a sign of good reproductive health?

ANSWERMenstruation is a natural process that begins at puberty in girls and recurs generally every 28–30 days. Its regular occurrence shows that the reproductive parts are maturing and functioning properly, which is why it is regarded as a sign of good reproductive health.

Q4. What are hormones and what role do they play during adolescence?

ANSWERHormones are certain chemicals produced in different parts of the body and released at the right time in response to signals from the brain. They regulate growth and development and are responsible for most changes of adolescence, including menstruation, other signs of puberty, and even mood and behaviour.

Q5. How should used sanitary pads be disposed of, and why?

ANSWERUsed sanitary pads should be disposed of properly by wrapping them in newspaper and putting them inside a dustbin. This ensures community health and environmental cleanliness. Biodegradable pads that are environment-friendly should be preferred where possible.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1. Explain the various physical changes that occur in boys and girls during adolescence.

ANSWERDuring adolescence the body undergoes many visible physical changes. There is a prominent increase in height in both boys and girls. Boys gain weight, their shoulders become broader and their chests get wider, while girls also gain height and weight and undergo other body changes such as the development of breasts. In boys, the growth of the voice box makes the voice hoarse and may appear as the Adam’s apple; the voice box grows slightly in girls too, causing only minor voice changes. Both boys and girls develop hair in the armpits and pubic region, and boys often develop facial hair that grows into a moustache and beard. A common skin change is acne, in which reddish pimples appear due to increased oily secretions. Several of these — voice change, facial hair, breast development — are secondary sexual characteristics. The timing and extent of all these changes vary from person to person and are completely normal.

Q2. Describe the different ways in which an adolescent can make this stage a healthy and joyful experience.

ANSWERAn adolescent can make this stage joyful through a few thoughtful habits. First, by meeting nutritional needs — eating a balanced diet rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals to support rapid growth. Second, by maintaining personal hygiene, especially of the armpits and pubic region, and good menstrual hygiene for girls, to prevent infections. Third, by taking part in regular physical activities and sports, which keep the body and mind fit, build stamina and boost mood. Fourth, by keeping a balanced social life — being polite and respectful, using social media responsibly and seeking guidance from elders. Fifth, by firmly saying ‘NO’ to harmful, addictive substances like tobacco, alcohol and drugs. Finally, by staying informed and seeking support and guidance from parents and teachers whenever needed. These choices build a strong foundation for life ahead.

Q3. What is meant by “substance abuse”? Why are addictive substances dangerous, and how can an adolescent stay away from them?

ANSWERSubstance abuse means the regular use of harmful substances such as tobacco, gutka, cigarettes, beedi, alcohol or illegal drugs. These substances are dangerous because they harm both physical and mental health — causing breathing difficulties, memory loss and damage to the lungs — and because they are addictive. Once a person starts, they develop a strong urge to take the substance again and again, until they begin using it regularly; many people who became addicted started with ‘just one time’. Since adolescence is marked by curiosity and excitement, adolescents may be tempted or pressured to try them. To stay away, an adolescent should remain firm and confident in saying ‘NO’ the first time and every time, make healthy choices, and seek help and support from family, friends, parents or teachers. Counselling and medical advice can also help. The National De-addiction Helpline (14446) is available for those who need it.

MCQs & Assertion–Reason

1. Adolescence generally occurs between the ages of:

(a) 5 and 9 years    (b) 10 and 19 years    (c) 20 and 30 years    (d) 45 and 55 years

2. The hoarseness in the voice of adolescent boys is due to the growth of the:

(a) lungs    (b) heart    (c) voice box    (d) brain

3. Features that help distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction are called:

(a) primary characteristics    (b) secondary sexual characteristics    (c) hormones    (d) reflexes

4. The menstrual cycle in adolescent girls generally recurs every:

(a) 7–10 days    (b) 14–18 days    (c) 28–30 days    (d) 60–90 days

5. Acne (pimples) during adolescence is caused mainly by:

(a) eating too many fruits    (b) increased oily secretions clogging skin pores    (c) drinking water    (d) too much sleep

6. The changes of puberty are mainly controlled by:

(a) vitamins    (b) minerals    (c) hormones    (d) enzymes only

7. Which of the following is observed only in girls during adolescence?

(a) growth of moustache    (b) development of breasts    (c) growth of facial hair    (d) prominent Adam’s apple

8. Menstruation usually stops naturally (marking the end of reproductive capability) by the age of:

(a) 25–30 years    (b) 35–40 years    (c) 45–55 years    (d) 60–70 years

9. Which of the following should an adolescent say ‘NO’ to?

(a) a balanced diet    (b) physical exercise    (c) tobacco, alcohol and drugs    (d) personal hygiene

10. The National De-addiction Helpline number launched by the government is:

(a) 100    (b) 14446    (c) 1098    (d) 108

Answer key: 1-(b), 2-(c), 3-(b), 4-(c), 5-(b), 6-(c), 7-(b), 8-(c), 9-(c), 10-(b).

For each Assertion–Reason question, choose: (A) Both true and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion; (B) Both true but the Reason is not the correct explanation; (C) Assertion true, Reason false; (D) Assertion false, Reason true.

A-R 1. Assertion: Change in voice and facial hair in boys are called secondary sexual characteristics.

Reason: They help distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction.

A-R 2. Assertion: Adolescents may develop pimples on the face.

Reason: Oily secretions from the skin increase during adolescence and can clog the skin pores.

A-R 3. Assertion: Every adolescent experiences the changes of puberty at exactly the same age and in the same way.

Reason: The timing, nature and extent of these changes vary from one individual to another.

A-R 4. Assertion: Used sanitary pads should be wrapped in newspaper and disposed of inside a dustbin.

Reason: Proper disposal ensures community health and environmental cleanliness.

A-R 5. Assertion: It is safe to try an addictive substance once because one can stop anytime.

Reason: Addictive substances create a strong urge to take them again and again, leading to regular use.

Answer key: 1-(A), 2-(A), 3-(D), 4-(A), 5-(D).

Quick Revision Summary

  • Human life has stages: infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age; each person passes through them at their own pace.
  • Adolescence is the change from childhood to adulthood, usually from about 10 to 19 years.
  • It brings physical, biological, emotional and behavioural changes plus the ability to reproduce.
  • Secondary sexual characteristics (voice change, facial/chest hair in boys, breast development in girls) distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction; they mark puberty.
  • In girls, puberty brings the menstrual cycle — blood discharge generally every 28–30 days (menstruation), ending naturally by about 45–55 years.
  • A balanced diet, good personal & menstrual hygiene, physical activity and a balanced social life keep adolescents healthy.
  • Say ‘NO’ to addictive substances like tobacco, alcohol and drugs.
  • Most changes of adolescence are controlled by chemicals called hormones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Watch out for these

  • Thinking adolescence brings only physical changes — it also brings emotional, behavioural and reproductive changes.
  • Confusing menstruation (the few days of blood discharge) with the whole menstrual cycle (the full 28–30 day repeating process).
  • Treating every neck bump as an Adam’s apple — in girls a neck bulge may be due to an iodine deficiency, not normal growth.
  • Believing the changes happen at the same age for everyone — their timing and extent vary and that is completely normal.
  • Assuming an addictive substance can be tried “just once” safely — addiction often starts with one try.
  • Forgetting that hormones, not just diet or exercise, are the main cause of puberty changes.

How to score full marks in this chapter

Learn the exact definitions of adolescence, puberty, secondary sexual characteristics, menstruation and hormones, with their age ranges (10–19, 28–30 days, 45–55 years). When categorising physical changes, remember that voice change, moustache and facial hair are boys-only, breast development is girls-only, and pimples and underarm/pubic hair are common to both. Always mention that the timing of changes varies and is normal, and link the changes to hormones. For lifestyle questions, list nutrition, hygiene, physical activity, balanced social life and saying ‘NO’ to harmful substances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 about?

Chapter 6, Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change, explains how the human body grows from childhood to adulthood. It covers the physical, emotional, behavioural and reproductive changes of adolescence and puberty, secondary sexual characteristics, the menstrual cycle, the role of hormones, and how to stay healthy through good nutrition, hygiene, physical activity and saying ‘NO’ to harmful substances.

What is the difference between adolescence and puberty?

Adolescence is the whole period of change from childhood to adulthood, usually from about 10 to 19 years. Puberty is the stage within adolescence in which the body undergoes external and internal changes to become capable of reproduction; its onset is marked by secondary sexual characteristics.

What are secondary sexual characteristics?

They are features that help distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction — for example, change in voice and growth of facial and chest hair in boys, and the development of breasts in girls. They are natural signs that the body is preparing for adulthood.

Are these Class 7 Science Curiosity Chapter 6 solutions free?

Yes. All solutions are free and follow the official NCERT Curiosity textbook for session 2026–27.

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