Week 1 (lesson 1)
Date: 6th January 2025
Subject: Agriculture Science
Grade: 7-8
Topic
Cultivation of Crops
Subtopic
Importance of Crop Cultivation
Specific Objectives
Explain the importance of crop cultivation.
Content
Benefits of Crop Cultivation:
1. Food Production ;
Crop cultivation provides a reliable source of food for human consumption. Staple crops like rice, corn, wheat, and cassava form the basis of diets around the world.
2. Income Generation:
Selling cultivated crops contributes to farmers' livelihoods and supports local and national economies. Cash crops such as sugarcane, cocoa, and coffee are major income sources for many communities.
3. Soil Health:
Certain crops, like legumes, improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen. Crop rotation practices help maintain soil nutrients and reduce degradation.
4. Raw Materials for Industry:
Many crops serve as raw materials for industries, such as cotton for textiles, sugarcane for biofuels, and oilseeds for vegetable oils.
5. Environmental Benefits:
Sustainable cultivation practices, such as cover cropping, prevent erosion, enhance biodiversity, and support ecological balance.
6. Food Security:
Crop cultivation ensures availability of food, reducing dependence on imports and enhancing national food security.
H.W
List the examples of Common Crops and their uses. (15 crops)
Activity
Class discussion on benefits of crop cultivation. Students created lists of crops grown locally and their uses.
Resources
Here is a video on the importance of crop cultivation.: https://youtu.be/UE8fQm_DxI4?si=AteURDuhLvzK2gF9
Instructions: Match the crops in Column A with their correct uses or characteristics in Column B. Write the correct letter in the space provided.
Column A
Column B
Rice
a. A root crop used to make farine, bread, and tapioca
Cassava
b. A tropical fruit commonly eaten fresh or in smoothies
Sugarcane
c. Grown in lowland fields; a staple for many Guyanese diets
Plantain
d. A tree crop; provides heart-healthy oils
Coconut
e. A starchy fruit often fried or boiled as a side dish
Tomato
f. Processed into sugar, molasses, or ethanol
Mango
g. Commonly used in salads and as a cooking ingredient
Week 1 (lesson 2)
Date: 9th January 2025
Subtopic
Types of Crops
Specific Objective
Identify common crops grown in Guyana.
Content
Subsistence Crops
Subsistence crops are grown primarily for the consumption of the farmer and their family. These crops are cultivated in small quantities to meet basic food needs and are typically not grown for sale or profit.
Examples:
Yam: A staple food in many cultures, yams are grown to provide a reliable food source.
Cassava: Often used to make flour or eaten as a root vegetable.
Maize (Corn): Commonly consumed as a daily staple in many regions.
Cash Crops
Cash crops are grown specifically for sale and generating income. These crops are often cultivated on a larger scale and sold in local or international markets.
Examples:
Sugarcane: Used in sugar production and as a source of ethanol.
Banana: Grown for local and international trade, providing a significant source of revenue.
Coffee: Cultivated mainly for export in many tropical regions.
Resources
https://youtu.be/xztjTlnCZiY?si=5grWoFW7I5pdngfG
Week 2 (lesson 1)
Date: 13th January 2025
Subtopic
Steps in Cultivations
Specific Objective
Outline steps in crop cultivation (land preparation, planting, care, and harvesting).
Content
Crop cultivation involves the systematic process of growing crops for subsistence or commercial purposes. Each step in cultivation is critical to ensuring healthy plant growth and maximum yield.
Steps in Crop Cultivation
Site Selection
Choose a location with suitable soil, climate, and topography for the crop to be grown.
Consider factors like sunlight exposure, water availability, and drainage.
Example: Select well-drained loam soil for growing vegetables like tomatoes.
Land Preparation
Prepare the soil to create favorable conditions for planting.
Steps include:
* Clearing: Remove weeds, bushes, and debris.
* Tilling/Plowing: Loosen the soil for aeration and better root penetration.
* Leveling: Flatten the soil to prevent waterlogging.
Example: Plow the land twice for crops like maize to ensure proper aeration.
Resources
https://youtu.be/7rktJrRG2e8?si=WiVE4az-GLLjV1jq
Week 2 (lesson 2)
Date 17th January 2025
Subtopic
Steps in Cultivation
Content
Tools and Equipment: Overview, Functions, and Maintenance
1. Hoe
Overview:
* A hand tool with a long handle and a flat metal blade at an angle.
* Used in agriculture for breaking soil, weeding, and shaping planting rows.
Functions:
* Loosens compacted soil for planting.
* Helps control weeds by cutting their roots.
* Shapes mounds or furrows for crops like yam and cassava.
Maintenance:
* Keep the blade clean and sharp for effective cutting.
* Store in a dry place to prevent rust.
* Oil the blade periodically to maintain its condition.
2. Machete
Overview:
* A large knife with a wide blade, commonly used in tropical agriculture.
Functions:
* Cutting and clearing grass, weeds, and small shrubs.
* Harvesting crops like sugarcane and bananas.
* Splitting fruits like coconuts.
Maintenance:
* Sharpen the blade regularly for efficient cutting.
* Clean after use to remove plant residue and prevent corrosion.
* Store in a sheath or safe location to avoid injuries.
Resources
https://youtu.be/3amZhrKlCcs?si=6gfxBbNh9OUIAgts
Activity
Next class we will use whichever tool is necessary for land preparation. Prepare the soil at school for crops
Week 3 (lesson 1)
Date 20th January 2025
Topic
Manures
Subtopic
Types of Manures
Specific Objectives
Identify organic and inorganic manures.
Content
1. Organic Manures
Definition:
Organic manures are natural fertilizers derived from plant and animal residues. They improve soil structure and provide essential nutrients over time.
Examples:
* Compost: Decomposed organic matter (vegetable scraps, leaves, and garden waste).
* Animal Manure: Waste from livestock such as cows, goats, and poultry.
Advantages:
* Enhance soil structure, aeration, and water retention.
* Improve soil fertility sustainably by adding organic matter.
* Encourage beneficial soil organisms, like earthworms and microbes.
* Reduce environmental harm as they decompose naturally.
Disadvantages:
* Nutrients are released slowly, requiring more time for visible effects.
* Bulkier and harder to transport compared to inorganic fertilizers.
* May contain weed seeds, pathogens, or excessive salts if not processed properly.
* Nutrient composition is variable and may not meet the exact requirements of crops.
2. Inorganic Manures
Definition:
Inorganic manures are synthetic or chemically manufactured fertilizers designed to provide specific nutrients quickly and effectively to crops.
Examples:
* Urea: High-nitrogen fertilizer (46% nitrogen) to boost vegetative growth.
* Ammonium Nitrate: A quick-release nitrogen fertilizer ideal for cereals and grains.
* Superphosphate: Source of phosphorus for root development.
Advantages:
* Nutrient content is precise and standardized for efficient application.
* Provide rapid nutrient absorption by plants, ensuring quick results.
* Convenient to store, transport, and apply due to compact packaging.
* Enhances crop yield significantly in a shorter time.
Disadvantages:
* Over-application can cause environmental harm, such as eutrophication of water bodies.
* Long-term use can lead to soil degradation and reduced organic matter.
* Dependence on synthetic fertilizers may increase costs for farmers.
* Harmful if misused, potentially causing root burn or toxic buildup.
Resources
https://youtu.be/LQfQauyj1ks?si=bDjjcOyf-dm-SxlC
Activity
Mixing cow manure with mud for suitable farming.
Week 3 (Lesson 2)
Date 23rd January 2025
Subtopic
Types of Manures
Specific Objectives
Explain the importance of manures in crop production.
Content
Inorganic Manures
Definition:
Inorganic manures are synthetic or chemically manufactured fertilizers designed to provide specific nutrients quickly and effectively to crops.
Examples:
* Urea: High-nitrogen fertilizer (46% nitrogen) to boost vegetative growth.
* Ammonium Nitrate: A quick-release nitrogen fertilizer ideal for cereals and grains.
* Superphosphate: Source of phosphorus for root development.
Advantages:
* Nutrient content is precise and standardized for efficient application.
* Provide rapid nutrient absorption by plants, ensuring quick results.
* Convenient to store, transport, and apply due to compact packaging.
* Enhances crop yield significantly in a shorter time.
Disadvantages:
* Over-application can cause environmental harm, such as eutrophication of water bodies.
* Long-term use can lead to soil degradation and reduced organic matter.
* Dependence on synthetic fertilizers may increase costs for farmers.
* Harmful if misused, potentially causing root burn or toxic buildup.
How Manures Provide Essential Nutrients (NPK) and Improve Soil Structure
Essential Nutrients Provided by Manures
Manures contribute three primary macronutrients required for plant growth:
* Nitrogen (N): Essential for leafy growth, chlorophyll production, and protein synthesis.
* Phosphorus (P): Supports root development, flowering, and fruit formation.
* Potassium (K): Strengthens plant resistance to diseases, enhances drought tolerance, and promotes overall growth.
Manures also provide secondary nutrients like calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S), along with micronutrients that enhance plant health.
How Manures Improve Soil Structure
* Enhance Soil Aeration: Organic manures improve soil porosity, allowing better root penetration and oxygen flow.
* Increase Water Retention: Organic matter in manures helps soil retain moisture, reducing drought stress on plants.
* Boost Microbial Activity: Beneficial microorganisms break down organic materials, releasing nutrients gradually for plant absorption.
* Prevent Soil Erosion: By improving soil aggregation, manures help reduce runoff and nutrient loss.
Organic vs. Inorganic Manure Efficiency
Factor
Organic Manures (e.g., Compost, Animal Manure)
Inorganic Manures (e.g., Urea, Ammonium Nitrate)
Nutrient Release
Slow and gradual as organic matter decomposes.
Immediate and fast-acting.
Soil Health
Improves soil structure, increases microbial activity.
May degrade soil quality over time if overused.
Environmental Impact
Environmentally friendly; reduces soil degradation.
Overuse can cause water pollution (eutrophication).
Cost & Availability
Often available on farms at a low cost.
More expensive but readily available.
Application Frequency
Requires fewer applications, as it enhances soil long-term.
Needs frequent applications for consistent crop growth.
Nutrient Content
Variable, depends on decomposition and source.
Precisely measured, ensuring balanced plant nutrition.
Week 4 (Lesson 1)
Date 27th January 2025
Subtopic
Types of Manures
Specific Objectives
Describe methods of applying manures.
Content
How Manures Provide Essential Nutrients (NPK) and Improve Soil Structure
1. Essential Nutrients Provided by Manures
Manures contribute three primary macronutrients required for plant growth:
* Nitrogen (N): Essential for leafy growth, chlorophyll production, and protein synthesis.
* Phosphorus (P): Supports root development, flowering, and fruit formation.
* Potassium (K): Strengthens plant resistance to diseases, enhances drought tolerance, and promotes overall growth.
Manures also provide secondary nutrients like calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S), along with micronutrients that enhance plant health.
2. How Manures Improve Soil Structure
* Enhance Soil Aeration: Organic manures improve soil porosity, allowing better root penetration and oxygen flow.
* Increase Water Retention: Organic matter in manures helps soil retain moisture, reducing drought stress on plants.
* Boost Microbial Activity: Beneficial microorganisms break down organic materials, releasing nutrients gradually for plant absorption.
* Prevent Soil Erosion: By improving soil aggregation, manures help reduce runoff and nutrient loss.
Organic vs. Inorganic Manure Efficiency
Factor
Organic Manures (e.g., Compost, Animal Manure)
Inorganic Manures (e.g., Urea, Ammonium Nitrate)
Nutrient Release
Slow and gradual as organic matter decomposes.
Immediate and fast-acting.
Soil Health
Improves soil structure, increases microbial activity.
May degrade soil quality over time if overused.
Environmental Impact
Environmentally friendly; reduces soil degradation.
Overuse can cause water pollution (eutrophication).
Cost & Availability
Often available on farms at a low cost.
More expensive but readily available.
Application Frequency
Requires fewer applications, as it enhances soil long-term.
Needs frequent applications for consistent crop growth.
Nutrient Content
Variable, depends on decomposition and source.
Precisely measured, ensuring balanced plant nutrition.
Week 4 (lesson 2)
Date 30th January 2025
Subtopic
Application of Manures
Specific Objectives
Identify the effects of improper manure application on the environment.
Content
Methods of Manure Application & Importance of Proper Placement
Methods of Manure Application
Method
Description
Advantages
Disadvantages
Broadcasting
Manure is spread evenly over the entire field before planting.
- Quick and easy to apply over large areas.
- Improves soil fertility over time.
- High risk of nutrient loss due to runoff and leaching.
- Uneven distribution may lead to poor crop growth.
Band Placement
Manure is applied in bands near the plant rows, either on the surface or below the soil.
- Nutrients are placed closer to plant roots for better absorption.
- Reduces nutrient loss from runoff.
- Requires more labor and equipment.
- May cause root damage if not properly placed.
Top-Dressing
Manure is applied around growing plants, usually as a side dressing.
- Provides nutrients when crops need them most.
- Enhances growth and yield.
- Risk of nutrient loss due to exposure to wind and rain.
- Can burn plant leaves if applied incorrectly.
Importance of Proper Manure Placement to Avoid Waste
1. Prevents Nutrient Loss – Incorrect application (e.g., surface broadcasting before rain) can lead to runoff and leaching, reducing effectiveness.
2. Enhances Nutrient Uptake – Placing manure closer to roots improves absorption and reduces the need for excessive applications.
3. Minimizes Environmental Pollution – Proper placement prevents excess nutrients from contaminating water bodies, reducing eutrophication risks.
4. Improves Crop Yield – Efficient placement ensures crops receive the right nutrients at the right time, leading to healthier plants and higher productivity.
5. Reduces Costs – Preventing waste means using less manure, saving farmers money on fertilizers.
Week 4 (lesson 2)
Date February 3rd 2025
Subtopic
Application of Manures
Content
Environmental Effects of Improper Manure Application
Improper use of manure can have serious environmental consequences, affecting water, soil, and air quality. Below are some of the major environmental issues caused by poor manure management.
Eutrophication - Eutrophication occurs when excess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus from manure, enter water bodies through runoff. This leads to the overgrowth of algae (algal blooms), which depletes oxygen levels in the water. As a result, aquatic life, including fish and other organisms, may die due to oxygen starvation. Additionally, harmful algal blooms can produce toxins that contaminate drinking water supplies, posing health risks to humans and animals.
Soil Degradation - Applying excessive manure can disrupt soil health in several ways. High nitrogen levels can cause soil acidification, making it less fertile over time. Manure that is not properly decomposed may also introduce pathogens and weed seeds, reducing crop quality. Additionally, heavy applications of inorganic manure can cause salt buildup in the soil, leading to poor plant growth and reduced productivity.
Air Pollution - Manure releases greenhouse gases such as methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), which contribute to climate change. Additionally, ammonia (NH₃) emissions from decomposing manure can cause air pollution and lead to acid rain, which harms crops, soil, and water sources. The odor from improperly managed manure can also become a nuisance in agricultural communities.
Prevention Methods
To minimize these environmental effects, proper manure management practices should be followed:
1. Careful Application – Manure should be applied at the right time, in the right amount, and using appropriate methods (e.g., band placement instead of broadcasting) to reduce nutrient loss. Application should be avoided before heavy rainfall to prevent runoff into water bodies.
2. Composting – Properly composting manure before use helps break down harmful pathogens, reduces odor, and stabilizes nutrients, making them more effective for plant growth. Composting also minimizes methane emissions compared to raw manure storage.
3. Soil Testing – Regular soil tests help determine the exact nutrient needs of crops, preventing over-application of manure and reducing soil degradation.
4. Buffer Zones – Planting vegetative buffer strips around fields helps absorb excess nutrients and prevents runoff into rivers and lakes.
5. Proper Storage – Manure should be stored in covered facilities or lined pits to prevent leaching and reduce air pollution.
Week 5 (lesson 1)
Date 6th February 2025
Topic
Introduction to Record Keeping
Subtopic
Importance of Records
Content
Definition of Record Keeping
Record keeping is the systematic process of documenting and maintaining important information related to farming operations. It involves tracking various activities, inputs, outputs, and financial transactions to help farmers make informed decisions.
Types of Farm Records
1. Input/Output Records – Track the quantity and type of resources used (e.g., seeds, fertilizers, feed) and the output produced (e.g., crop yield, milk production).
2. Sales Records – Document all sales transactions, including quantity sold, prices, and customer details.
3. Inventory Records – Keep track of available farm supplies, such as tools, fertilizers, seeds, and livestock feed.
4. Financial Records – Include income, expenses, loans, and profits to help manage the farm’s finances effectively.
5. Production Records – Record details on crop growth, livestock breeding, and productivity over time.
6. Health and Treatment Records – For livestock farms, track vaccinations, disease treatments, and overall animal health.
Week 5 (lesson 2)
Date 10th February 2025
Subtopic
Importance of Records
Content
Benefits of Record Keeping
1. Financial Tracking – Helps farmers monitor income and expenses, ensuring profitability and identifying areas to cut costs.
2. Better Decision-Making – Provides data to improve planning, such as when to plant crops, buy inputs, or sell produce for the best prices.
3. Improved Productivity – Helps farmers identify which crops or livestock perform best, leading to more efficient resource use.
4. Compliance with Regulations – Ensures that farmers meet agricultural standards, especially when applying for loans, subsidies, or certifications.
5. Prevention of Losses – Detects wastage, theft, or mismanagement of farm resources.
6. Easier Farm Management – Keeps operations organized and allows for long-term planning and forecasting.
Week 6 (lesson 1)
Date 13th February 2025
Topic
Introduction to Record Keeping
Subtopic
Creating Simple Records
Content
Examples of Simple Farm Records
Crop Yield Records – Keep track of the amount of crops harvested per season to monitor productivity.
Example:
Date
Crop Type
Quantity Harvested (kg)
Field Location
Jan 15, 2025
Tomatoes
100 kg
Field A
Livestock Feeding Schedules – Record the type and quantity of feed given to animals daily.
Example:
Date
Animal Type
Feed Type
Quantity (kg)
Feeding Time
Jan 15, 2025
Goats
Grass
10 kg
8 AM, 4 PM
Sales Records – Document sales transactions, including customer details and payment amounts.
Example:
Date
Product Sold
Quantity
Price per Unit
Total Sales
Jan 15, 2025
Eggs
30
$2
$60
Week 6 (lesson 2)
Date 17th February 2025
Subtopic
Creating Simple Records
Steps to Create and Maintain Farm Records
1. Identify the Type of Record Needed – Decide what information is important to track (e.g., crop yield, expenses, sales).
2. Use a Simple Format – Create tables, notebooks, or digital spreadsheets to organize data clearly.
3. Record Information Regularly – Update records daily or weekly to ensure accuracy.
4. Be Consistent – Use the same method for recording data to maintain uniformity.
5. Check for Accuracy – Double-check entries to avoid errors that may affect decision-making.
6. Store Records Safely – Keep records in a secure place (physical copies in folders or digital files in cloud storage).
7. Review and Analyze Data – Periodically review records to identify trends and make informed decisions.
Week 7 (lesson 1)
Date 20th February 2025
Topic
Fish Culture and Rearing
Subtopic
Introduction to Fish Farming
Content
Definition of Fish Farming
Fish farming, also known as aquaculture, is the controlled cultivation of fish in ponds, tanks, or enclosures for commercial, subsistence, or recreational purposes. It provides a sustainable way to produce fish for food, income, and environmental conservation.
Common Farmed Fish in Guyana
1. Tilapia
Fast-growing and hardy species
Can survive in different water conditions
Commonly farmed for local and export markets
2. Tambaqui
Native to South America and highly valued for its taste
Adaptable to different water conditions
Has a high market demand
3. Hassar (Armored Catfish)
Well-adapted to local conditions
Used in traditional Guyanese dishes
Grows well in pond culture
4. Arapaima
One of the largest freshwater fish in the world
Farmed for its high market value
Requires specialized farming techniques
Videos
https://youtu.be/_UYJTbrsFRM?si=ah7oTLU_akv3y_yc
https://youtu.be/kCwqFaBbz0Q?si=4eao1YX01nmBaumR
Week 7 (lesson 2)
Date 24th February 2025
Subtopic
Introduction to Fish Farming
Content
Benefits of Fish Farming
1. Food Security
* Provides a reliable source of protein and essential nutrients
* Reduces dependency on wild fish stocks, preventing overfishing
* Can be integrated with crop farming for a balanced food supply
2. Income Generation
* Farmers can sell fish to local markets, supermarkets, and restaurants
* Creates job opportunities in breeding, harvesting, and processing
* Fish farming is a profitable business with high demand
3. Environmental Benefits
* Reduces pressure on wild fish populations
* Can be integrated with rice farming (rice-fish farming) to maximize land use
* Helps control mosquito populations by using fish that feed on larvae
4. Efficient Use of Resources
* Uses small land space compared to traditional livestock farming
* Can be practiced in backyards, small ponds, or commercial-scale farms
* Water from fish ponds can be used to irrigate crops, improving sustainability
Fish farming plays a crucial role in agriculture by enhancing food production, creating jobs, and promoting environmental sustainability.
Week 8 (lesson 1)
Date 3rd March 2025
Topic
Fish Culture and Rearing
Subtopic
Management Practices
Content
Management Practices in Fish Farming
Proper management is essential to ensure healthy fish growth, prevent diseases, and maximize production in a fish farm. Key management practices include feeding schedules, maintaining water quality, and disease control.
Feeding Schedules
Importance of Proper Feeding:
* Ensures healthy growth and development of fish
* Prevents overfeeding, which can pollute the water
* Reduces feed wastage and lowers production costs
Types of Fish Feed:
* Natural Feed: Algae, plankton, and small insects found in water
* Artificial Feed: Pellets, grains, and fish meal designed for specific fish species
Feeding Frequency:
* Young fish (fingerlings) need to be fed 2–3 times per day
* Adult fish are usually fed once or twice per day
* Feeding time should be consistent daily
Signs of Proper Feeding:
* Fish actively come to the surface or feeding area
* No excess feed remains in the water after feeding
Maintaining Water Quality
Key Water Quality Factors:
* Oxygen Levels: Fish need dissolved oxygen to survive. Aerators or water movement help maintain oxygen levels.
* pH Levels: The ideal pH range for most fish is 6.5 – 8.5.
* Temperature: Fish thrive in temperatures between 24°C – 30°C depending on the species.
* Ammonia and Waste Levels: Fish waste and uneaten food release harmful ammonia. Regular water changes help keep levels low.
Best Practices for Water Quality Maintenance:
* Change 10–20% of the pond water weekly
* Use aeration systems to maintain oxygen levels
* Avoid overcrowding to prevent oxygen depletion and stress
* Monitor water quality using test kits for pH, ammonia, and oxygen levels
Week 8 (lesson 2)
Date 6th March 2025
Subtopic
Management Practices
Content
Controlling Diseases in Fish Farms
Disease
Symptoms
Cause
Prevention
Fungal Infections
White cotton-like patches on body
Poor water quality
Clean tanks, use antifungal treatments
Bacterial Infections
Ulcers, red spots on skin
Overcrowding, injury
Reduce fish density, apply antibiotics
Parasitic Infestations
Fish rubbing against objects, loss of appetite
External parasites like lice
Use salt baths or specialized treatments
Ammonia Poisoning
Fish gasping for air, slow movement
High waste accumulation
Regular water changes, avoid overfeeding
Signs of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Fish:
Healthy Fish:
* Active swimming
* Clear eyes and vibrant color
* Normal feeding behavior
Unhealthy Fish:
* Lethargy or floating near the surface
* Loss of appetite
* Unusual swimming patterns (erratic movements or sinking)