Unit 20: Reaching the Age of Adolescence NMMS SAT 8th
Here is a comprehensive study note guide for Unit 20: Reaching the Age of Adolescence, NMMS and TNPSC exam preparation. These notes cover all physiological changes, hormonal roles, reproductive phases, and nutritional needs mentioned in the text.
Unit 20: Reaching the Age of Adolescence
I. Introduction to Adolescence
Definition: Adolescence is the period of transition from childhood to adulthood. It is the most crucial period in an individual's life.
Etymology: The term is derived from the Latin word 'adolescere' meaning 'to grow' or 'grow to maturity'.
Duration: This period typically starts at age 13 and ends at age 19 (commonly known as teenage).
Biologically: It is marked by the onset of puberty and the termination of physical growth.
II. Puberty
Definition: Puberty is a period of rapid physical, physiological, and psychological changes resulting in sexual maturity.
Average Age of Onset:
Girls: 10–11 years.
Boys: 12–13 years.
Factors Influencing Puberty: Genetic/biological influences, life events, socio-economic status, nutrition, diet, and body fat amount.
III. Body Changes at Puberty
Four important changes transform a child's body into an adult's:
1. Changes in Body Size (Growth)
Height: Sudden increase in height. Both boys and girls add around 23 cm to 26 cm in height during adolescence.
Weight: Significant increase. Average weight gain is about 17 kg to 19 kg.
Girls: Increase in fat.
Boys: Muscle development.
2. Changes in Body Proportion
Limbs: Feet and hands grow disproportionately big.
Trunk: Lengthens and broadens at the hip and shoulder to give the adult proportion.
3. Primary Sex Characteristics
Functionality: Reproductive organs become fully functional.
Males: Testes grow larger; reproductive organ increases in length and size. Testes are the primary male sex organs.
Females: Ovaries and uterus increase in size/weight. Ovaries are the primary female sex organs.
4. Secondary Sex Characteristics
These are physical features distinguishing males from females.
Boys:
Hair: Pubic hair appears first, followed by axillary (armpit) and facial hair.
Skin: Becomes coarse; pores enlarge. Oil glands enlarge, causing acne.
Muscle: Strength increases; arms, legs, and shoulders shape up.
Voice: Becomes husky, pitch drops, volume increases.
Adam’s Apple: The protruding part of the throat caused by the growth of the larynx (larger in boys than girls).
Mechanism: Male hormones loosen and thicken the chords attached to the cartilage, producing a hoarse sound.
Girls:
Hips: Pelvic bone enlarges and subcutaneous fat develops, making hips wider and rounder.
Breast: Breasts begin to develop.
Hair: Pubic hair appears, followed by axillary and body hair.
Voice: Becomes shrill (high-pitched); voice breaks are rare.
Skin/Glands: Skin becomes coarser; oil glands become active causing acne.
IV. Role of Hormones in Reproduction
Hormones are chemical substances secreted by endocrine glands (ductless glands) directly into the bloodstream.
1. Regulation:
Reproduction is regulated by the Anterior Pituitary gland.
Key regulatory hormones: FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone).
2. Male Hormones:
Testosterone (Androgen): Secreted by the testes.
Stimulated by LH (also called ICSH - Interstitial Cell Stimulating Hormone in males).
Functions: Growth of larynx, muscle development, skeletal size, body/pubic hair, sweat glands.
FSH in Males: Necessary for spermatogenesis (sperm production) and development of seminiferous tubules.
3. Female Hormones:
Estrogen: Secreted by the ovaries.
Stimulated by FSH (development of Graafian follicle).
Functions: Development of breast, external genitalia, pubic/axillary hair, body fat distribution.
Progesterone: A gestational hormone. Secretion stimulated by LH.
LH in Females: Essential for ovulation and final maturation of the Graafian follicle.
4. Other Hormones:
Prolactin (Lactogenic Hormone): Milk secretion during lactation.
Oxytocin: Expulsion of milk and contraction of uterine muscles during childbirth.
V. Reproductive Phases in Humans
Females: Starts at puberty (10–12 years) and ends at menopause (45–50 years).
Males: Starts at 13 years and continues lifelong.
Key Phases in Females:
Menarche: The first menstrual flow begins at puberty.
Ovulation: The release of a mature ovum from the ovary. Occurs once in about 28 to 30 days (approx. day 14 of the cycle).
Pregnancy: If the ovum is fertilized, it implants in the uterus. The corpus luteum produces progesterone to maintain pregnancy. Normally lasts 280 days.
Menstruation: If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, hormone levels drop, and the uterine lining sheds. Bleeding lasts 3 to 5 days.
Menopause: Stoppage of menstruation around 45 to 50 years of age. Symptoms include anxiety, irritability, and fatigue.
Menstrual Cycle:
Marks the onset of puberty.
Repeats every 28 days.
Controlled by hormones.
Stops temporarily during pregnancy and restarts after childbirth.
VI. Nutritional Needs of Adolescents
Adolescence requires a balanced diet due to rapid growth.
Balanced Diet: Proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins in requisite proportions. Indian meal (roti/rice, dal, milk, vegetables) is good.
Minerals Needed:
Calcium: For skeletal mass. Found in milk/milk products. Prevents osteoporosis.
Iodine: Prevents thyroid diseases.
Iron: Builds blood. Prevents anemia.
Iron-rich foods: Green leafy vegetables, jaggery, meat, dates, fish, citrus, Indian gooseberry (Nelli).
Importance: Boys need it for muscle spurt; Girls need it for menstruation loss.
VII. Reproductive Health & Hygiene
Definition (WHO): Total well-being of behavioural, emotional, physical, and social aspects.
Sleep: Adolescents need 8 to 10 hours of sleep.
Cleanliness: Daily bath, changing undergarments daily (cotton is preferred).
Menstrual Hygiene: Use disposable napkins/tampons. Change frequently. Avoid repeated use of cloth unless washed with hot water and dried in sunlight.
Physical Exercise: Promotes sound sleep and mental peace.
VIII. Important Exam Key Points
Adam's Apple: Protruding voice box in boys.
Testosterone: Male hormone (Testes).
Estrogen: Female hormone (Ovaries).
Menarche: First menstruation.
Menopause: Stoppage of menstruation (45-50 years).
Ovulation: Release of egg (Day 14).
Iron: Essential to prevent anemia; found in green veggies and jaggery.
Sebaceous glands: Oil glands responsible for acne/pimples during puberty.
Here are 50 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on Unit 20: Reaching the Age of Adolescence, designed for your NMMS and TNPSC exam preparation.
Topic: Adolescence and Puberty
1. The term "Adolescence" is derived from the Latin word 'adolescere' which means:
a) To reproduce
b) To grow to maturity
c) To change voice
d) To become strong
Answer: b) To grow to maturity
2. Adolescence typically begins at the age of:
a) 10
b) 11
c) 13
d) 15
Answer: c) 13
3. The period of adolescence usually ends at the age of:
a) 18
b) 19
c) 21
d) 25
Answer: b) 19
4. The average age for the onset of puberty in girls is:
a) 12-13
b) 10-11
c) 14-15
d) 8-9
Answer: b) 10-11
5. During adolescence, both boys and girls add approximately how much to their height?
a) 10 cm to 15 cm
b) 15 cm to 20 cm
c) 23 cm to 26 cm
d) 30 cm to 35 cm
Answer: c) 23 cm to 26 cm
6. The average weight gain during the adolescent period is:
a) 5-10 kg
b) 10-12 kg
c) 17-19 kg
d) 20-25 kg
Answer: c) 17-19 kg
7. In boys, the primary sex organs are the:
a) Ovaries
b) Testes
c) Thyroid
d) Adrenals
Answer: b) Testes
8. Which body part grows disproportionately big during the change in body proportion?
a) Head
b) Stomach
c) Feet and hands
d) Neck
Answer: c) Feet and hands
9. Puberty is marked by the onset of:
a) Emotional maturity
b) Sexual maturity
c) Career choices
d) Aging
Answer: b) Sexual maturity
10. In girls, increase in weight during adolescence is associated with an increase in:
a) Muscle mass
b) Fat
c) Bone density
d) Height only
Answer: b) Fat
Topic: Secondary Sexual Characteristics
11. The protruding part of the throat seen in adolescent boys is called:
a) Thyroid cartilage
b) Voice box
c) Adam's apple
d) Epiglottis
Answer: c) Adam's apple
12. The Adam's apple is formed due to the growth of the:
a) Pharynx
b) Larynx
c) Oesophagus
d) Tongue
Answer: b) Larynx
13. Acne and pimples in adolescents are caused by the increased activity of:
a) Sweat glands
b) Salivary glands
c) Oil (sebaceous) glands
d) Thyroid glands
Answer: c) Oil (sebaceous) glands
14. Which secondary sexual characteristic is specific to girls?
a) Broadening of shoulders
b) Widening of hips
c) Growth of facial hair
d) Deepening of voice
Answer: b) Widening of hips
15. The male hormone responsible for secondary sexual characteristics is:
a) Estrogen
b) Progesterone
c) Testosterone
d) Oxytocin
Answer: c) Testosterone
16. The female hormone responsible for the development of breasts is:
a) Testosterone
b) Estrogen
c) Androgen
d) Insulin
Answer: b) Estrogen
17. In boys, the voice becomes deep and harsh because the vocal chords:
a) Shorten and thin out
b) Loosen and thicken
c) Disappear
d) Become rigid
Answer: b) Loosen and thicken
18. Voice breaks are rare among:
a) Boys
b) Girls
c) Infants
d) Adults
Answer: b) Girls
19. Androgens stimulate the stimulation of which glands?
a) Tear glands
b) Sweat glands
c) Salivary glands
d) Pituitary glands
Answer: b) Sweat glands
20. Which hormone regulates the secondary sex characters in males?
a) Estrogen
b) Androgen
c) Progesterone
d) Prolactin
Answer: b) Androgen
Topic: Role of Hormones
21. Hormones are secreted by which type of glands?
a) Exocrine glands
b) Endocrine glands
c) Duct glands
d) Salivary glands
Answer: b) Endocrine glands
22. Which gland regulates the secretion of hormones from gonads?
a) Thyroid
b) Adrenal
c) Anterior Pituitary
d) Pancreas
Answer: c) Anterior Pituitary
23. LH stands for:
a) Lactogenic Hormone
b) Luteinizing Hormone
c) Long Hormone
d) Lipid Hormone
Answer: b) Luteinizing Hormone
24. In males, LH stimulates the testes to produce:
a) Estrogen
b) Androgens
c) Progesterone
d) Insulin
Answer: b) Androgens
25. FSH stands for:
a) Female Sex Hormone
b) Follicle Stimulating Hormone
c) Fat Stimulating Hormone
d) Fertilization Start Hormone
Answer: b) Follicle Stimulating Hormone
26. Which hormone is necessary for spermatogenesis in males?
a) LH
b) FSH
c) Prolactin
d) Oxytocin
Answer: b) FSH
27. The hormone responsible for milk secretion during lactation is:
a) Estrogen
b) Prolactin
c) Oxytocin
d) Progesterone
Answer: b) Prolactin
28. Which hormone causes the expulsion of milk from the breast?
a) Prolactin
b) Oxytocin
c) FSH
d) LH
Answer: b) Oxytocin
29. In males, LH is also referred to as:
a) FSH
b) ICSH
c) TSH
d) ACTH
Answer: b) ICSH
30. Which hormone is necessary for ovulation in females?
a) FSH
b) LH
c) Testosterone
d) Insulin
Answer: b) LH
Topic: Reproductive Phases
31. The first menstrual flow that begins at puberty is called:
a) Menopause
b) Menarche
c) Ovulation
d) Pregnancy
Answer: b) Menarche
32. Ovulation usually occurs on which day of a 28-day cycle?
a) Day 1
b) Day 5
c) Day 14
d) Day 28
Answer: c) Day 14
33. The release of an ovum from the ovary is called:
a) Fertilization
b) Menstruation
c) Ovulation
d) Implantation
Answer: c) Ovulation
34. If fertilization occurs, the corpus luteum produces large amounts of:
a) Estrogen
b) Progesterone
c) LH
d) FSH
Answer: b) Progesterone
35. Normal pregnancy lasts for how many days?
a) 250 days
b) 280 days
c) 300 days
d) 365 days
Answer: b) 280 days
36. The shedding of the uterine lining along with blood is called:
a) Ovulation
b) Fertilization
c) Menstruation
d) Menopause
Answer: c) Menstruation
37. Menstruation typically lasts for:
a) 1-2 days
b) 3-5 days
c) 10-12 days
d) 14 days
Answer: b) 3-5 days
38. Stoppage of menstruation is termed as:
a) Menarche
b) Menopause
c) Pause
d) Maturity
Answer: b) Menopause
39. Menopause usually occurs at the age of:
a) 30-35 years
b) 45-50 years
c) 60-65 years
d) 70-75 years
Answer: b) 45-50 years
40. Menstruation stops temporarily during:
a) Puberty
b) Pregnancy
c) Sleep
d) Exercise
Answer: b) Pregnancy
Topic: Nutritional Needs & Health
41. Which mineral is essential to prevent osteoporosis in later life?
a) Iron
b) Iodine
c) Calcium
d) Zinc
Answer: c) Calcium
42. Which mineral helps to prevent thyroid gland-related diseases?
a) Iron
b) Calcium
c) Iodine
d) Phosphorus
Answer: c) Iodine
43. Iron is essential for building:
a) Bones
b) Blood
c) Teeth
d) Muscles
Answer: b) Blood
44. Which of the following is an iron-rich food?
a) Milk
b) Jaggery
c) Rice
d) Cheese
Answer: b) Jaggery
45. Lack of iron in the diet results in:
a) Goiter
b) Anemia
c) Rickets
d) Scurvy
Answer: b) Anemia
46. How many hours of sleep each night is necessary for adolescents?
a) 5 to 6 hours
b) 6 to 8 hours
c) 8 to 10 hours
d) 10 to 12 hours
Answer: c) 8 to 10 hours
47. Women need to take more iron to make up for the loss of blood during:
a) Urination
b) Perspiration
c) Menstruation
d) Digestion
Answer: c) Menstruation
48. Ideally, undergarments should be made of:
a) Silk
b) Nylon
c) Cotton
d) Wool
Answer: c) Cotton
49. Which of the following can induce menopause artificially?
a) Eating junk food
b) Surgical removal of ovaries
c) Lack of sleep
d) Excessive exercise
Answer: b) Surgical removal of ovaries
50. During adolescence, nutritional deficiencies can delay:
a) Height growth only
b) Weight gain only
c) Sexual maturation
d) Hair growth
Answer: c) Sexual maturation
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