### Lesson Plan: Agricultural Science (Senior Secondary 1)
#### Topic: Husbandry of Selected Crops
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**Lesson Duration:** 90 minutes
**General Goal:** To understand the principles and practices involved in the husbandry of selected crops.
**Specific Objectives:**
1. Define crop husbandry and its importance.
2. Identify selected crops suitable for the local climate and soil.
3. Describe the steps involved in the husbandry of each selected crop.
4. Explain the different methods of planting, maintenance, and harvesting.
5. Discuss the economic importance of these crops.
**Materials Needed:**
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector and laptop (for PowerPoint presentations)
- Handouts with detailed information on selected crops
- Samples of seeds or seedlings
- Soil samples
- Farming tools (small spades, rakes, etc.)
- Reference books/articles on crop husbandry
- Flip charts and markers
**Selected Crops:**
1. Maize (corn)
2. Rice
3. Tomatoes
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### Lesson Outline
**Introduction (10 minutes)**
- Begin with a brief discussion to activate prior knowledge about farming.
- Pose questions like:
- What crops do you think are important in our community?
- Do you or your family grow any crops? Which ones?
**Development (60 minutes)**
1. **Definition and Importance of Crop Husbandry (10 minutes)**
- Define crop husbandry.
- Discuss its importance in food security, economic impact, and employment.
2. **Selecting Suitable Crops: Maize, Rice, and Tomatoes (10 minutes)**
- Mention the criteria for selecting crops (climate, soil type, water availability, etc.)
- Briefly introduce each selected crop and its specific suitability to the region.
3. **Steps in the Husbandry of Maize** (15 minutes)
- Land preparation
- Planting methods (spacing, depth, and seed rate)
- Weed control and maintenance
- Fertilization
- Pest and disease management
- Harvesting techniques
4. **Steps in the Husbandry of Rice** (15 minutes)
- Land preparation (importance of paddy fields)
- Seed selection and nursery raising
- Transplanting and direct seeding
- Water management (importance of irrigation)
- Weed, pest, and disease management
- Fertilization
- Harvesting techniques
5. **Steps in the Husbandry of Tomatoes** (10 minutes)
- Seedling preparation
- Planting techniques and spacing
- Fertilization
- Staking and pruning
- Pest and disease management
- Irrigation requirements
- Harvesting and post-harvest handling
**Practical Demonstration (10 minutes)**
- Demonstrate how to prepare soil and plant seeds or seedlings.
- Show some basic farming tools and explain their uses.
- Allow students to participate in a hands-on activity, such as planting a few seeds.
**Conclusion (10 minutes)**
- Review the main points covered in the lesson.
- Discuss the economic importance of maize, rice, and tomatoes.
- Answer any questions from students.
- Assign homework: Write a brief report on the husbandry practices of one crop grown in your household or community.
**Assessment/Evaluation:**
- Monitor participation during class discussions.
- Evaluate the practicality and thoroughness of the hands-on activity.
- Collect and review the homework report for understanding and completeness.
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**Homework:**
Write a brief report (1-2 pages) on the husbandry practices of one crop grown in your household or community. Include details on land preparation, planting, maintenance, pest and disease management, and harvesting.
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**Resources/References:**
- Agricultural Science textbooks and reference materials
- Online articles on crop husbandry
- Local agricultural extension services
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This lesson plan aims to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective crop husbandry, fostering their interest and competence in agricultural practices.