Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term - Senior Secondary 2

TERM – 3^RD TERM

WEEK SIX

Class: Senior Secondary School 2

Age: 16 years

Duration: 40 minutes of 5 periods each

Date:

Subject: Geography

Topic: IRRIGATION AGRICULTURE IN NILE BASIN AND THE NIGER BASIN

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

1. Explain factors that favour irrigations agriculture in Nile and Niger Basin
2. Discuss crop types and methods of irrigation agriculture in use, in both countries
3. Explain contributions of irrigation schemes to economic development in the two countries
4. Analyse the problems of irrigation agriculture and suggest solutions to them

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers,

demonstration, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Videos, loud speaker, textbook, pictures

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES

PERIOD 1-2

NOTE

IRRIGATION AGRICULTURE IN NILE BASIN AND THE NIGER BASIN

Factors Favoring Irrigation Agriculture in Nile and Niger Basin

The following are factors that favors irrigation Agriculture in Nile and Niger basin:

1. Abundant Water Resources: Both the Nile and Niger Basins are endowed with major rivers – the Nile River and the Niger River, respectively. The presence of these abundant water sources supports irrigation agriculture by providing a consistent water supply.
2. Flat Topography: The relatively flat terrain in both regions facilitates the construction of irrigation systems. This topographical advantage makes it easier to distribute water across agricultural fields.
3. Favorable Climate: The climate in the Nile and Niger Basins features extended dry periods, necessitating irrigation to sustain agriculture during times of limited rainfall. Irrigation helps mitigate the impact of seasonal droughts.

Crop Types and Methods of Irrigation Agriculture

1. Egypt (Nile Basin): Crops that predominantly grow well in Nile basin include: Wheat, barley, rice, and various fruits.

 Irrigation Methods

1. Traditional flood irrigation: Exploits the annual flooding of the Nile, allowing for widespread watering of fields.
2. Basin and furrow irrigation: Common techniques involving the controlled flooding or channeling of water to specific areas.
3. Niger (Niger Basin): The crops commonly cultivated in this region include, Millet, sorghum, and rice are among the key crops cultivated.

 Irrigation Methods

1. Flood recession farming: Traditional practice where crops are planted as water levels recede after seasonal floods.
2. Furrow and basin irrigation: Employed in various areas, involving the controlled diversion or distribution of water to fields.

Contributions of Irrigation Schemes to Economic Development

1. Irrigation schemes in both countries contribute significantly to increased crop yields and a more reliable food supply. This, in turn, enhances food security and provides a surplus for export, positively impacting the agricultural sector.
2. The establishment and maintenance of irrigation systems create employment opportunities, ranging from infrastructure development to farm labor. This contributes to income generation and poverty reduction in rural areas.
3. Irrigation allows for the cultivation of a variety of crops throughout the year, leading to crop diversification. This not only meets domestic demand but also opens up opportunities for exporting a broader range of agricultural products.
4. By reducing dependency on rainfall, irrigation schemes contribute to stability in agricultural output. This stability is crucial for maintaining a consistent supply of raw materials for agro-based industries, supporting economic growth.

Problems of Irrigation Agriculture

1. Water Scarcity: Increasing demand and competing uses lead to water scarcity.
2. Infrastructure Challenges: Inadequate infrastructure for irrigation systems.
3. Environmental Concerns: Negative environmental impacts such as soil salinity and waterlogging.
4. Access to Irrigation: Unequal access to irrigation resources among farmers.
5. Technological Gaps: Limited adoption of modern irrigation technologies.

Potential Solutions to problems of irrigation

1. Implement efficient water management practices, invest in water-saving technologies, and promote responsible water consumption.
2. Invest in modernizing irrigation infrastructure, including the construction and maintenance of canals, pumps, and water distribution networks.
3. Adopt sustainable agricultural practices, use salt-tolerant crops, and implement proper drainage systems to minimize environmental degradation.
4. Develop policies to ensure equitable access, provide support to smallholder farmers, and promote community-based irrigation management.
5. Promote research and extension services to disseminate knowledge about advanced irrigation technologies, encouraging their widespread adoption.

EVALUATION: 1. Identify 4 factors that favours irrigations  agriculture in Nile and Niger Basin

2. Mention 4 crop types and methods of irrigation agriculture in use, in both countries
3. Identify the problems of irrigation Agriculture
4. Suggest 4 potential solution to the problems of irrigation Agriculture.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher commends the students positively