Across the Wall — Class 5 EVS (CBSE)
Based on the NCERT Looking Around Grade 5 textbook. Learn about girls who broke barriers in sports, then solve the practice set.
1. Why this chapter matters
For a long time, girls were discouraged from playing sports. People thought sports were only for boys. This chapter tells the inspiring story of girls from a slum in Mumbai who formed a basketball team and broke through social barriers. They proved that girls can excel in sports just as well as boys. The chapter addresses gender equality, teamwork, and the power of determination.
2. The story of the basketball girls
In a slum in Mumbai, a group of girls wanted to play basketball. But there was no space — the only court was used by boys. The girls were told that sports were not for girls. But they did not give up.
They found a coach, Afshin Jahan, who believed in them. They started practising early in the morning when the court was empty. Slowly, they improved. They formed a team and started winning matches. Their success changed people's attitudes. The same people who once said 'girls cannot play' became their biggest supporters.
Key persons
| Person | Role |
|---|---|
| Afshin Jahan | The coach who trained the girls |
| The girls | Young basketball players from the slum |
| The community | Initially unsupportive, later proud |
3. Gender equality in sports
The problem
- Girls were often not allowed to play outdoor sports.
- There were fewer sports facilities for girls.
- Girls were expected to help at home instead of playing.
- People believed sports would 'distract' girls from studies or marriage.
- Girl teams received less funding and support than boy teams.
Why sports matter for girls
- Sports keep girls healthy and fit.
- Team sports build confidence and leadership.
- Sports teach discipline, teamwork, and handling success/failure.
- Playing sports challenges gender stereotypes.
- Many women have become famous sportspersons: P.T. Usha, Mary Kom, Mithali Raj, Saina Nehwal, P.V. Sindhu.
4. Qualities of a good team
The basketball girls succeeded because of their team spirit.
| Quality | How it helped |
|---|---|
| Determination | They practised early morning despite difficulties |
| Hard work | They trained regularly to improve |
| Teamwork | They played together, not as individuals |
| Support | They encouraged each other |
| Leadership | The coach and team leaders guided them |
| Discipline | They followed rules and routines |
5. Breaking barriers
The girls broke through many 'walls' (barriers):
- Social wall: Proving that girls can play sports.
- Economic wall: Many came from poor families but found a way.
- Physical wall: No proper court or equipment — they adapted.
- Mental wall: Overcoming doubts and negative attitudes.
What we can learn
- Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot do something.
- Hard work and determination can overcome obstacles.
- Gender does not determine ability.
- Support your classmates and friends in their goals.
6. Activity corner
Activity 1: Find out about a famous Indian woman sportsperson. Write a short paragraph about her achievements.
Activity 2: Have a class discussion: 'Should boys and girls have the same sports opportunities in school?' Write down the arguments.
Activity 3: Organise a friendly match (any sport) where boys and girls play together. Focus on teamwork and fun, not winning.
7. Common mistakes
- Mistake: Thinking only boys are good at sports Fix: Many women have excelled in sports at national and international levels. Ability is not determined by gender.
- Mistake: Believing sports are not important for girls Fix: Sports are important for everyone — they build health, confidence, discipline, and teamwork.
- Mistake: Thinking the story is only about basketball Fix: Basketball is the example, but the message applies to all sports and all areas where girls face barriers.
8. Key facts
- The story is about girls from a Mumbai slum who formed a basketball team.
- Their coach was Afshin Jahan.
- They faced social, economic, and mental barriers.
- Through determination and teamwork, they succeeded.
- Sports build confidence, health, and leadership in girls.
- Gender equality in sports is important.
- Famous Indian women in sports: P.T. Usha, Mary Kom, Mithali Raj, Saina Nehwal, P.V. Sindhu.
9. Self-test
- Who coached the basketball girls?
- What barriers did the girls face?
- How did the girls manage to practise without a court?
- Name one famous Indian woman sportsperson.
- Why is it important for girls to play sports?
10. Answer key
-
Who coached the basketball girls? Answer: Afshin Jahan.
-
What barriers did the girls face? Answer: Social barriers (people said girls should not play sports), economic barriers (poor families), and lack of facilities (no court or equipment).
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How did the girls manage to practise without a court? Answer: They practised early in the morning when the boys' court was empty.
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Name one famous Indian woman sportsperson. Answer: P.T. Usha (athletics), Mary Kom (boxing), Mithali Raj (cricket), Saina Nehwal (badminton), P.V. Sindhu (badminton) — any one.
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Why is it important for girls to play sports? Answer: Sports keep girls healthy, build confidence, teach teamwork, challenge stereotypes, and develop important life skills.
11. Quick revision
- Story: Girls from a Mumbai slum formed a basketball team.
- Coach: Afshin Jahan believed in them.
- Barriers: social, economic, physical, mental.
- They succeeded through determination and teamwork.
- Gender does not determine sports ability.
- Famous Indian women athletes inspire us.
- Encourage everyone — boys and girls — to play sports.
- Sports build confidence, health, and life skills.
- Break the walls that hold you back.
