Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify the parts of irrigation and drainage systems.
• Explain the function of each part.
• Understand how to operate basic irrigation systems.
• Analyze the impact of good water management on crops.

Lesson summary

In Ghana, our farming is heavily dependent on rainfall, which comes in specific seasons. This means for many months, especially during the long dry (Harmattan) season, food production can be very difficult. Modern mechanised agriculture provides a solution through irrigation (supplying water) and drainage (removing excess water). By controlling the water available to our crops, we can farm all year round, increase our yields, ensure food security for our families and communities, and create more income. This lesson will introduce you to the essential systems that make this possible.

Lesson notes

A. What are Irrigation and Drainage? Irrigation: This is the artificial application of water to land or soil to assist in the growing of crops. Think of it as manually "creating rain" for your farm when the natural rains are not enough. In Ghana, this is crucial for dry-season farming of vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and onions, especially in the northern savannah and coastal plains. Drainage: This is the natural or artificial removal of excess water from the surface or below the surface of the soil to prevent waterlogging. Too much water is just as bad as too little. It suffocates plant roots, preventing them from breathing and absorbing nutrients. Drainage is important in high-rainfall areas like the Western Region or on farms with heavy clay soils that don't let water pass through easily.

Analogy: Think of a plant in a pot. Irrigation is you using a watering can to give it water. Drainage is the little hole at the bottom of the pot that lets excess water escape so the roots don't rot. A farm needs both to be healthy.

B. Types and Parts of Irrigation Systems

We will focus on two modern systems common in Ghana. Sprinkler Irrigation System

Evaluation guide

• Describe the parts and functions of the irrigation and drainage system in
• Agriculture production and demonstrate the skills of opera ting them.
• Enquiry -based learning: Learners in gender -based groups surf the internet to
• come up with information on the parts and functions of an irrigation and drainage