Many candidates attempted this question and their performance was above averages. In question l(a), most candidates could state the aim of the experiment. However, in question 1(b), some candidates were unable to describe how the experiment was carried out and state the observations. The expected answers include:
Procedure for carrying out the experiment:
A dried sample of garden soil is placed in the sieve with the largest mesh diameter(A)

1. The sieve is then shaken vigorously to allow the soil fractions which can pass . through the diameter of the mesh to fall into the next sieve (B)
2. The shaking process is repeated  till the ,soil, sample finally gets to the last sieve with the smallest diameter(E)

OR

1. Dried soil sample is placed in .sieve A and shaken
2. Fraction that passes through to sieve B from A is in turn shaken
3. Fraction passes from sieve B onto sieve C is next.  Shaken
4. Another fraction from sieve C passes to sieve D below
5. Finally, fraction from sieve D is shaken and another :fraction collects .in ,sieve E at the end .

OBSERVA TIONS

1. It would be observed that each soil fraction has  been retained in the sieve that has a corresponding diameter with their particle Sizes
2. The smallest particle sizes would collect in E.

In questions l( c) and (d), many candidates were able to state the expected .soil fractions in the different sieves labelled A to E and list properties of soil fractions collected in sieves labelled C and E.   
However, in question l(e), some candidates could not state ways in which the soil characteristic determined  in the experiment is important in agriculture .
The expected answers include:
Importance of soil texture

1. Soil texture determines the type of soil that is found in an area
2. It exerts a great influence on water movement into and within the soil
3. It exerts a great influence on air movem,m1Jaeration in the soil
4. It determines the workability of the soil
5. It influences root penetration into the soil
6. It determines the type of implements to use on the soil
7. It influences nutrients retention in ~C~ soil
8. Influences type and concentration of soil organisms
9. Determines the type of crop to cultivate
10. Influences nutrient availability

Used in soil classification