**Lesson Plan**
**Subject: Agricultural Science**
**Grade: Primary 6**
**Lesson Title: Crop Storage**
**Duration: 60 minutes**
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### **Objective:**
1. Understand the importance of properly storing crops.
2. Identify different methods of crop storage.
3. Learn the benefits and drawbacks of each storage method.
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### **Materials Needed:**
- Chart paper and markers
- Pictures of different storage methods (silos, granaries, drying racks, etc.)
- Samples of dried crops (corn, beans, rice, etc.)
- Storage containers (small bins, sacks, jars)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Simple handouts on crop storage
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### **Introduction: (10 minutes)**
**1. Engage:**
- Begin with a short discussion asking students what they know about storing food at home.
- Show pictures of fresh crops and stored crops, and ask students why storing crops might be important.
**2. Introduction to Topic:**
- Explain that today, they will be learning about how farmers store the crops they grow to keep them safe and edible for longer periods.
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### **Main Activity: (30 minutes)**
**1. Explanation:**
- Discuss why crop storage is vital:
- Preserves food for future consumption.
- Prevents loss due to pests, diseases, or spoilage.
- Helps manage food supply throughout the year.
**2. Methods of Crop Storage:**
- Use chart paper to write down and explain each method:
- **Drying:** Removing moisture from crops to prevent mold and spoilage (e.g., using drying racks).
- **Granaries:** Large storage buildings where grains are kept.
- **Silos:** Tall structures used to store bulk materials, especially grains and silage.
- **Hermetic Storage:** Airtight containers or bags to protect against pests and moisture.
- **Cold Storage:** Cooling equipment like refrigerators used to store perishable crops.
**3. Group Activity:**
- Split the class into small groups. Give each group a picture or sample of a storage method.
- Ask them to discuss in their groups and then share what they think the benefits and drawbacks of their given storage method are.
- Students then present their findings to the class.
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### **Interactive Exercise: (10 minutes)**
**1. Hands-On Demonstration:**
- Show students different types of storage containers for small-scale use (bins, sacks, jars).
- Demonstrate how to store a dried crop sample properly.
- Let students practice placing dried crops into storage containers.
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### **Conclusion: (5 minutes)**
**1. Recap:**
- Summarize the key points covered in the lesson:
- Importance of crop storage.
- Different methods of storage.
- Benefits of keeping crops stored properly.
**2. Questions and Answers:**
- Allow students to ask any lingering questions.
- Provide answers and clarify any misunderstandings.
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### **Assessment: (5 minutes)**
**1. Quick Quiz:**
- Hand out a simple worksheet with short questions about crop storage.
- Questions could include:
- Why is crop storage important?
- Name two methods of crop storage.
- What are the benefits of drying crops?
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### **Homework:**
1. Ask students to interview a family member or neighbor about how they store food at home.
2. Have them write a short paragraph about what they learned and present it in the next class.
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### **Additional Notes:**
- Be sure to adjust the lesson for any special needs or extra time as needed.
- Encourage students to think critically and relate this lesson to what they see in their everyday lives.
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**End of Lesson Plan**