Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term - Senior Secondary 1

TERM – 3^RD TERM

WEEK THREE

Class: Senior Secondary School 1

Age: 15 years

Duration: 40 minutes of 5 periods each

Date:

Subject: Geography

Topic: CLIMATE OF NIGERIA

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to

1. Describe the two major seasons in Nigeria
2. Outline the main characteristics of Nigeria’s climate
3. Analyse the influence of local winds on the climate of Nigeria
4. Discuss the influence of climate on agriculture in Nigeria

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers,

demonstration, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Videos, loud speaker, textbook, pictures

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES

PERIOD 1-2

NOTE

CLIMATE OF NIGERIA

Major Seasons in Nigeria

A season is a division of the year characterized by distinct weather patterns, temperatures, and day length. Earth's axial tilt and its orbit around the sun result in variations in sunlight and temperature throughout the year, leading to the concept of seasons.

Nigeria experiences two primary seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

1. Rainy Season: These season is characterized by increased precipitation, high humidity, and relatively cooler temperatures. During this season, the southwest and southeast regions receive more rainfall than the northern areas. It's typically lasts from April to October, peaking around July and August.

 The rainy season is crucial for agriculture, providing optimal conditions for planting and cultivation. It supports the growth of crops such as rice, maize, and various vegetables.

2. Dry Season: These season is marked by reduced rainfall, lower humidity levels, and higher temperatures. Northern regions experience more distinct dry conditions compared to the southern parts of the country. It's typically spans from November to March.

 The dry season can pose challenges for agriculture, requiring irrigation in some areas. It is a period for harvesting certain crops and preparing for the next planting season.

Characteristics of Nigeria Climate

Nigeria is divided into four climatic regions as follows:

1. Sub-equatorial climate: Primarily found in the southern part of Nigeria, including the coastal areas.

 Characteristics

1. High temperatures and humidity throughout the year.
2. Abundant rainfall, especially during the wet season (April to October).
3. Prominent harmattan influence during the dry season, bringing dry and dusty winds.

2. Tropical hinterland climate: It's encompasses the central part of Nigeria, away from the coastal regions.

Characteristics

1. Distinct wet and dry seasons.
2. The rainy season typically occurs from April to October, while the dry season spans from November to March.
3. Moderate temperatures with a decrease in humidity during the dry season.
4. Suitable conditions for agriculture, especially during the wet season.

3. Tropical continental climate: It is predominantly found in the northern regions of Nigeria.

 Characteristics:

1. Pronounced wet and dry seasons.
2. Longer dry season compared to the southern regions, often extending from October to April.
3. Hot temperatures during the dry season, with high daytime temperatures.
4. Lower humidity during the dry season.

4. The high plateau climate: It is associated with elevated areas, particularly the Jos Plateau and surrounding regions.

Characteristics

1. Moderate temperatures, making it cooler than the surrounding lowlands.
2. Well-defined wet and dry seasons.
3. More temperate conditions, especially at higher altitudes.
4. Suitable for certain cash crops and temperate agriculture.

Influence of local winds on the climate of Nigeria

Local winds can have a notable influence on the climate of Nigeria, affecting temperature, humidity, and atmospheric conditions. Below are two significant local winds that impact Nigeria's climate:

1. Harmattan Winds: The harmattan is a dry and dusty wind that originates from the Sahara Desert in North Africa.

Influence on climate

  - During the harmattan season, which typically occurs from November to March, these winds blow southward across Nigeria, bringing dry and dusty air.

  - Harmattan winds can lead to a drop in temperatures, especially in the northern and central regions of Nigeria.

  - The dust carried by harmattan winds reduces visibility and can have health implications.

2. Sea Breeze: Sea breezes result from the temperature difference between the land and the adjacent ocean.

Influence on Climate

  - During the day, the land heats up faster than the ocean. As a result, cooler air from the sea moves inland, providing a cooling effect, particularly along the coast.

   - Sea breezes can bring increased humidity and, at times, contribute to afternoon cloud formation and precipitation along coastal areas.

Influence of climate on agriculture in Nigeria

Climate in Nigeria has a lot of influence on the Agricultural activities, below are some of them;

1. Temperature and Growing Seasons: Different regions experience varying temperatures based on their climatic zones. Temperature influences the duration of growing seasons and the types of crops that can be cultivated.
2. Rainfall Patterns: Nigeria's distinct wet and dry seasons significantly affect agriculture. Rainfall patterns determine the availability of water for crops, influencing planting and harvesting times.
3. Drought and Flood Risks: Irregular rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells can lead to drought, affecting crop yields. Conversely, heavy rainfall can result in flooding, damaging crops and causing soil erosion.
4. Harmattan Winds: The harmattan season, characterized by dry and dusty winds, can lead to reduced soil moisture and affect certain crops' growth.
5. Pest and Disease Dynamics: Climate influences the prevalence and activity of pests and diseases. Warmer temperatures and specific humidity levels can create favorable conditions for certain crop pests.

EVALUATION: 1. Define season and identify the two seasons in Nigeria

2. Discuss the effects of harmattan air on the Nigeria climate
3. How do climate affect Agricultural activities in Nigeria. Give 4 reasons.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher commends the students positively