Preserving Harvests: Essential Methods for Crop Longevity Agricultural Science Primary 5 First Term Lesson Notes Week 9

Agricultural Science Primary 5 First Term Lesson Notes Week 9

Subject: Agricultural Science
Class: Primary 5
Term: First Term
Week: 9
Age: 9 years
Topic: Preservation of Harvested Crops
Sub-topic: Silo, Crib, Yam Barn, Bagging
Duration: 40 minutes
Behavioural Objectives: By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Identify various methods of preserving harvested crops.
2. Discuss the processes involved in preserving crops.
3. Justify the reasons for preserving harvested crops.

Keywords: Preservation, Silo, Crib, Yam Barn, Bagging, Process

Set Induction:
The teacher will start by asking pupils how they think harvested crops are kept fresh and safe for future use. This will lead into a discussion about different preservation methods.

Entry Behaviour:
Pupils have a basic understanding of harvesting activities and the need for post-harvesting processes.

Learning Resources and Materials:

• Models or images of silos, cribs, yam barns, and bags
• Charts or diagrams showing preservation methods
• Agricultural Science Textbook

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge:
The teacher will link the lesson to previous topics on harvesting and storage, emphasizing that preservation is a crucial step to ensure the longevity and usability of crops.

Embedded Core Skills:

• Analytical skills
• Practical application
• Problem-solving

Learning Materials:

• Agricultural Science Textbook
• Models of preservation structures
• Diagrams and charts

Reference Books:

• Lagos State Scheme of Work
• Primary 5 Agricultural Science Textbook

Instructional Materials:

• Diagrams and images of preservation methods
• Preservation tools and materials
• Sample preserved crops

Content:

1. Methods of Preserving Harvested Crops:

• Silo: A large, airtight structure used to store grains and other dry crops. It protects crops from pests and moisture.
• Crib: An open-sided structure used for storing crops like maize. It allows for ventilation to prevent mold and spoilage.
• Yam Barn: A specially designed building for storing yams. It keeps yams cool and dry to prevent sprouting and decay.
• Bagging: The process of placing crops in bags for storage. It is useful for transporting and storing a variety of crops.

2. Processes Involved in Preserving Crops:

• Cleaning: Removing dirt and debris from the crops before storage.
• Drying: Ensuring that crops are dry to prevent mold and spoilage.
• Sealing: Using airtight containers or bags to protect crops from moisture and pests.
• Ventilation: Providing airflow to prevent overheating and condensation.

3. Importance of Preserving Harvested Crops:

• Prevents Spoilage: Proper preservation techniques prevent crops from rotting or becoming infested with pests.
• Extends Shelf Life: Preservation helps keep crops fresh for longer periods, reducing waste.
• Maintains Quality: Good preservation practices ensure that crops retain their nutritional value and taste.

Questions:

1. A _______ is used to store grains and protect them from pests.
   • a) Crib
   • b) Silo
   • c) Yam Barn
2. Bagging is a method used for _______ crops.
   • a) Planting
   • b) Harvesting
   • c) Storing
3. A _______ is an open-sided structure for storing crops like maize.
   • a) Silo
   • b) Yam Barn
   • c) Crib
4. The _______ method is used to store yams and prevent sprouting.
   • a) Bagging
   • b) Silo
   • c) Yam Barn
5. Preserving crops helps to _______ spoilage.
   • a) Increase
   • b) Prevent
   • c) Speed up
6. Proper _______ helps crops stay fresh for longer periods.
   • a) Harvesting
   • b) Storage
   • c) Planting
7. The process of removing dirt from crops before storage is called _______.
   • a) Cleaning
   • b) Drying
   • c) Grading
8. _______ is used to prevent moisture from getting into stored crops.
   • a) Ventilation
   • b) Sealing
   • c) Sorting
9. A _______ helps to prevent mold and spoilage in stored maize.
   • a) Silo
   • b) Crib
   • c) Bag
10. _______ ensures that crops are dry before storage to prevent spoilage.
    • a) Drying
    • b) Cleaning
    • c) Sealing
11. The method of storing grains in a large, airtight structure is called _______.
    • a) Crib
    • b) Silo
    • c) Yam Barn
12. A _______ keeps crops cool and dry to prevent decay.
    • a) Silo
    • b) Yam Barn
    • c) Crib
13. Using _______ helps to prevent pests from attacking stored crops.
    • a) Ventilation
    • b) Sealing
    • c) Bagging
14. Proper preservation techniques help to maintain the _______ of crops.
    • a) Price
    • b) Quality
    • c) Size
15. _______ is the process of placing crops in bags for easier storage and transport.
    • a) Bagging
    • b) Sorting
    • c) Cleaning

Class Activity Discussion 

1. Q: What are the main methods of preserving harvested crops?
   A: The main methods include using silos, cribs, yam barns, and bagging.
2. Q: How does a silo help in preserving crops?
   A: A silo stores grains in an airtight environment, protecting them from pests and moisture.
3. Q: Why is bagging used in crop preservation?
   A: Bagging helps in storing and transporting crops while protecting them from moisture and pests.
4. Q: What is the purpose of a yam barn?
   A: A yam barn keeps yams cool and dry to prevent sprouting and decay.
5. Q: How does a crib help in preserving maize?
   A: A crib provides ventilation to prevent mold and spoilage in stored maize.
6. Q: What is the first step in preserving harvested crops?
   A: The first step is cleaning the crops to remove dirt and debris.
7. Q: Why is drying important in crop preservation?
   A: Drying prevents mold and spoilage by ensuring that crops are not too moist.
8. Q: How does sealing protect stored crops?
   A: Sealing prevents moisture and pests from entering the storage container.
9. Q: What role does ventilation play in crop preservation?
   A: Ventilation prevents overheating and condensation, reducing the risk of spoilage.
10. Q: Why is it important to preserve harvested crops?
    A: Preservation prevents spoilage, extends shelf life, and maintains crop quality.
11. Q: How can improper preservation affect harvested crops?
    A: Improper preservation can lead to spoilage, pest infestation, and loss of quality.
12. Q: What are the benefits of using a silo for grain storage?
    A: A silo protects grains from pests, moisture, and environmental conditions, keeping them fresh.
13. Q: What should be done if crops are found to be spoiled during storage?
    A: Spoiled crops should be removed and discarded to prevent contamination of healthy crops.
14. Q: How often should stored crops be checked for quality?
    A: Stored crops should be checked regularly to ensure they are being preserved properly.
15. Q: What are some common problems faced during crop preservation?
    A: Common problems include moisture buildup, pest infestation, and inadequate ventilation.

Presentation:

Step 1: The teacher will introduce the topic of crop preservation by discussing the importance of keeping crops fresh and safe for future use.

Step 2: The teacher will demonstrate the various methods of preservation, including how to use a silo, crib, yam barn, and bagging techniques. Pupils will observe and discuss the processes involved.

Step 3: Pupils will participate in a hands-on activity where they will practice bagging and sorting preserved crops. They will also discuss and justify the reasons for using different preservation methods.

Teacher’s Activities:

• Explain and demonstrate preservation methods.
• Show how to use different preservation structures and techniques.
• Supervise pupils as they practice preservation activities.

Learners’ Activities:

• Observe and take notes on preservation methods.
• Practice using preservation techniques.
• Discuss the importance of each preservation method and its benefits.

Assessment:

1. Identify the different methods of preserving harvested crops.
2. Describe the process of preserving crops using a silo.
3. Explain why preservation is important for harvested crops.
4. Demonstrate how to use bagging for crop storage.
5. Discuss the advantages of using a yam barn for storing yams.

Conclusion:
The teacher will summarize the key points of the lesson, check pupils’ understanding, and provide feedback on their practice with preservation methods. The teacher will address any questions and reinforce the importance of proper crop preservation.