Growth is the permanent increase in size, height, weight, or number of cells of an organism.

Example: A child increasing in height from 100 cm to 120 cm over a year shows growth.

Growth is measurable, for example by using a scale or measuring tape.

Development is the series of changes an organism undergoes during its life, including physical, mental, emotional, and social changes.

Example: A child learning to speak, read, or solve problems is showing development.

Development is observed, not always measured.

1. Growth is continuous from birth until adulthood.


2. It follows a pattern – e.g., rapid in infancy, slower in childhood, rapid again in adolescence.


3. Growth is influenced by heredity and environment.


4. Growth is measurable using tools like scales and measuring tapes.

1. Development is continuous throughout life.


2. It involves mental, emotional, and social changes.


3. Development can be influenced by education, experience, and environment.


4. Development is observed through skills, behavior, and maturity.

1. Height – how tall a person is.


2. Weight – body mass changes.


3. Body length/girth – useful for infants.


4. Other features – limb length, head circumference.


5. Measurement helps track health and normal development patterns.

1. Infancy (0–2 years) – Rapid physical growth, crawling, walking, basic communication.


2. Childhood (2–12 years) – Steady growth, learning basic skills like reading and social interaction.


3. Adolescence (12–18 years) – Rapid growth spurt, development of secondary sexual characteristics, mental and emotional maturity.


4. Adulthood (18+ years) – Height growth stops, continued development in skills, knowledge, and social responsibilities.

1. Heredity – Genes inherited from parents affect height and body structure.


2. Nutrition – Balanced diet promotes proper growth.


3. Health – Frequent illness can slow growth.


4. Environment – Safe, clean surroundings support healthy growth.


5. Exercise – Strengthens muscles and bones.

1. Education – Learning experiences improve mental and social growth.


2. Experience – Interaction with environment develops problem-solving and social skills.


3. Emotional care – Love, attention, and guidance foster emotional maturity.


4. Social environment – Family, peers, and community influence social skills and behavior.

1. Increase in height and weight.


2. Strengthening of bones and muscles.


3. Appearance of secondary sexual characteristics in adolescence.

1. Learning new skills such as reading, writing, or speaking.


2. Acquiring knowledge from experience and education.


3. Developing social, emotional, and moral understanding.

1. Infancy (0–2 years)


1. Rapid growth in height and weight.


2. Development of basic motor skills: crawling, sitting, standing, and walking.


3. Sensory development: responding to sounds, sights, and touch.


4. Beginning of communication: babbling, simple words, recognizing familiar people.


5. Shows dependence on caregivers for survival.


2. Childhood (2–12 years)


1. Growth becomes steady but slower than infancy.


2. Development of basic skills: reading, writing, counting.


3. Increase in social interaction: playing with peers, learning cooperation.


4. Development of emotional control: expressing feelings appropriately.


5. Learning rules and values from family, school, and community.


3. Adolescence (12–18 years)


1. Rapid growth in height and weight (growth spurt).


2. Development of secondary sexual characteristics: e.g., voice changes, body hair.


3. Increasing mental maturity: improved reasoning, decision-making, problem-solving.


4. Emotional changes: mood swings, developing self-identity.


5. Social changes: stronger peer relationships, awareness of social responsibilities.


4. Adulthood (18+ years)


1. Physical growth stops, but strength and health can improve with exercise.


2. Full mental and emotional maturity: capable of planning, problem-solving, and handling responsibilities.


3. Development of social and family roles: marriage, career, and parenthood.


4. Use of experience and knowledge to innovate, make decisions, and guide others.

Growth and development changes can be classified into Temporary Changes and Permanent Changes.

1. Temporary Changes: These are short-lived changes that do not last permanently.

Example: A child’s hair getting wet in the rain, temporary excitement, or minor illness.

2. Permanent Changes: These are lasting changes that become part of the organism’s development.

Example: Increase in height, development of secondary sexual characteristics, learning to walk or talk.

1. Prepares the body for adulthood and reproduction.


2. Improves mental and social abilities.


3. Helps humans adapt to changing environments.


4. Enables performance of daily activities efficiently.

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Practical Activities to Observe Growth

1. Measure height every month and record changes.


2. Track weight changes in children or pets regularly.


3. Observe plant growth over time.