This question was well attempted by the candidates. In question 2(a)(i & ii), most of the candidates could not explain the terms primary and secondary tillage implements.
In question 2(b) (i & ii), most of the candidates were able to state the reasons why disc plough are better suited for soils in West Africa than the mouldborad ploughs and list the major parts of a disc plough.
In question 2(c), many candidates could give the reasons why secondary tillage is necessary before sowing of seeds. However, in question 2(d), many candidates were unable to state the precautions a farmer should take when spraying chemicals.
The expected answers include:
Explanation of Primary Tillage Implement:
This is an implement used to break and turn the soil over in so doing clods or lumps are formed e.g plough.
Secondary Tillage Implement
This is basically the implement used after ploughing to breakdown soil clods/lumps into fine tilth e.g harrow, cultivator, ridger.
OR
Implements used after ploughing to pulverize soil e.g harrow, cultivator, ridger.
Precautions a farmer should take when spraying chemicals:
- Do not spray on a rainy day
- The operator should wear protective clothings like face mask, gloves, overalls and boots when spraying
- Do not spray in the hot weather especially in the afternoon
- Do not spray near water bodies
- Do not draw water from the river with chemical containers
- Adhere to manufacturer’s specification/instructions
- Do not blow blocked-nozzle with mouth when spraying
- Do not talk, smoke or eat during spraying
- Do not spray on a windy day
