- Class: Primary 5
- Term: 1st Term
- Week: 9
- Age: 10 years
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Subject: Pre Vocational Studies
- Curriculum Theme: Agricultural Science
- Previous Lesson: How To Grow Crops
- Topic: How To Grow Crops
- Content: Application Of Pesticides
Performance Objectives:
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain: Explain what pesticides are and why they are used in crop production.
- Affective Domain: Appreciate the importance of using pesticides safely to protect crops and the environment.
- Psychomotor Domain: Demonstrate the correct method of applying pesticides to crops.
- Social Domain: Collaborate with peers in a group activity to practice pesticide application techniques.
Reference Materials:
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 – Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Centre Scheme of work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
- Online Information from World Scientific Publishing – Application of Pesticides to Crops
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials:
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- A small bottle of water labeled as “Pesticide”
- A spray bottle for demonstrating application
- Pictures or diagrams showing the correct method of applying pesticides
- Flashcards with key terms (e.g., pesticide, crops, application, safety)
Rationale for the Lesson:
Understanding how to properly apply pesticides is crucial for ensuring healthy crop production and protecting the environment. This lesson will help pupils understand the correct techniques for pesticide application, which is an essential skill in agricultural practices. Safe pesticide use prevents crop loss due to pests and reduces the risk of environmental contamination.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge:
Pupils should already have a basic understanding of crop growth and the need to protect crops from pests, as covered in previous lessons on how to grow crops.
Learning Area: How To Grow Crops; Application Of Pesticides
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
| Content Development | Time | Teaching Method | Teaching Strategy | Teachers Activity | Pupils Activity | Learning Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1: Introduction | 5 minutes | Interactive Discussion | Questioning and Response | The teacher asks pupils to recall what they learned about crop growth and the challenges pests can pose to crops. | Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions about crop growth and pest problems. | Pupils recall the importance of protecting crops from pests. |
| Step 2: Explanation of Pesticides | 8 minutes | Lecture | Demonstration | The teacher explains what pesticides are and why they are used, showing the labeled bottle of “pesticide.” | Pupils listen and observe the demonstration. | Pupils understand what pesticides are and their role in crop protection. |
| Step 3: Application Techniques | 10 minutes | Practical Demonstration | Step-by-step Guidance | The teacher demonstrates the correct method of applying pesticides using the spray bottle. | Pupils watch the teacher’s demonstration and take notes. | Pupils learn the proper techniques for pesticide application. |
| Step 4: Group Activity | 10 minutes | Group Work | Hands-on Practice | The teacher organizes pupils into groups to practice the pesticide application technique using the spray bottle. | Pupils work in groups to practice spraying water as if applying pesticides. | Pupils practice the correct application of pesticides. |
| Step 5: Note Taking | 5 minutes | Direct Instruction | Writing Exercise | The teacher guides pupils to copy key points into their notebooks. | Pupils write down important points about pesticide application. | Pupils reinforce their understanding through note-taking. |
| Step 6: Evaluation and Conclusion | 2 minutes | Question and Answer | Review | The teacher asks questions to assess understanding and wraps up the lesson by summarizing key points. | Pupils answer questions and listen to the conclusion. | Pupils demonstrate their understanding and are reminded of the importance of safe pesticide use. |
Lesson Content
How To Grow Crops: Application Of Pesticides
One of the way to protect our crops is by using pesticides, which are chemicals that kill pests like insects and weeds.
How to Apply Pesticides:
- Prepare the Pesticide: Always read the instructions on the pesticide label carefully. Measure the correct amount of pesticide and mix it with water if necessary.
- Apply with Care: Use a spray bottle or other appropriate tool to apply the pesticide evenly over the crops. Be sure to cover all parts of the plant but avoid spraying too much in one spot.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves, a mask, and protective clothing when applying pesticides to avoid exposure.
- Apply on a Calm Day: Choose a day when there is little to no wind to apply pesticides. This helps prevent the chemicals from drifting to other areas where they are not needed.
- Follow Up: After applying the pesticide, monitor the crops to ensure that pests are controlled and that the plants are healthy.
Lesson Evaluation:
To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:
- What are pesticides, and why are they important in growing crops?
- Describe two safety precautions to take when applying pesticides.
- Explain the steps involved in applying pesticides to crops.
- Why is it important to apply pesticides on a calm day?
- How would you ensure that pesticides are applied correctly and safely?
