TOPIC: SAFETY MEASURES IN APPLYING FARM CHEMICALS
A: TEACHING AND LEARNING MATERIALS
- Pictures of farm chemical containers.
- Gloves.
- Face mask.
- Protective clothing.
- Safety goggles.
- Warning signs and labels.
B: REFERENCE MATERIALS
- Scheme of work.
- Recommended Agric Sciences textbook for Primary 4.
- Online educational resources.
C: PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE
The pupils have learnt that farmers may use some chemicals to control weeds, pests and diseases on the farm.
D: PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Explain farm chemicals.
- Give examples of farm chemicals.
- State reasons farmers use chemicals.
- State safety measures when applying chemicals.
- Explain why farm chemicals must be stored safely.
E: CONTENT
Meaning of Farm Chemicals
Farm chemicals are substances used to control weeds, pests and diseases or improve crop production. Examples include:
- herbicides
- insecticides
- fungicides
- fertilizers
Uses of Farm Chemicals
Farmers use farm chemicals to:
- Kill weeds.
- Control insects.
- Control crop diseases.
- Supply nutrients to crops.
Safety Measures
Farm chemicals can be dangerous if handled carelessly.
1. Wear Protective Clothing
Farmers should wear:
- gloves
- boots
- face masks
- goggles
- long clothing
🧤 Protective clothing reduces contact with chemicals.
2. Read Instructions
Always follow instructions written on the chemical container.
3. Avoid Eating or Drinking
Do not eat or drink while applying farm chemicals.
4. Avoid Touching the Face
Do not touch the eyes, mouth or nose during application.
5. Observe Wind Direction
Do not spray against the wind.
6. Wash After Use
Wash hands, body and equipment after applying chemicals.
7. Store Chemicals Safely
Farm chemicals should be kept:
- away from children
- away from food
- in properly labelled containers
- in a safe storage place
F: LESSON PRESENTATION
F1: Teachers’ Activities
- Explains farm chemicals.
- Shows pictures of chemical containers.
- Identifies protective clothing.
- Demonstrates correct safety practices.
- Explains why chemicals should not be touched carelessly.
- Discusses safe storage.
F2: Pupils’ Activities
- Explain farm chemicals.
- Name examples of chemicals.
- Identify protective clothing.
- State safety measures.
- Explain why chemicals should be stored safely.
G: CONCLUSION
The teacher revises the importance of using farm chemicals carefully and safely. The teacher warns pupils never to touch or use farm chemicals without responsible adult supervision.
H: EVALUATION GUIDE
Pupils should be able to answer the following questions:
- What are farm chemicals?
- Name three examples of farm chemicals.
- State two uses of farm chemicals.
- Name four protective items worn during spraying.
- Why should a farmer not eat while spraying?
- Where should farm chemicals be stored?
- Why should farmers observe wind direction?