Observation

(a)        Many candidates were only able to state the characteristics of the rock types in
            Question 2(a) but could not describe their mode of formation.
(b)        Most candidates displayed poor understanding of the importance of nursery in
            tomato production and marks were generally poor in Question 2(c).

The expected answers include:

(a)        Description of processes of formation of rock types

(i)          Igneous rock

• Igneous rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of molten magma
• It occurs as a result of volcanic eruption
• If the molten magma solidifies on the earth surface, it is called extrusive/volcanic rock
• If the molten magma solidifies beneath the earth surface, it is called intrusive/plutonic rock

(ii)          Sedimentary rock

• Sedimentary rock is formed from the deposition of sediments of other rocks or fossils by water, wind or ice
• Formed layer by layer over a long period of time
• The deposits are cemented/compacted together over a long period of time

     
(iii)       Metamorphic rock

• Metamorphic rock is formed from pre-existing igneous or sedimentary rocks
• The pre-existing rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure

-     The intense heat and pressure change the structure and colour of the original rock to a new rock

            (b)        Factors that should be considered in selecting a crop variety for cultivation
-   Uniform growth habits                               -   Low cost of production
-   Superior/high yield                                     -   Resistance to diseases
-   Resistance to pests                                      -   Adaptability to climatic conditions
-   Adaptability to soil conditions                   -   Superior quality
-   Early maturity                                             -   Available technology
-   Marketability                                              -   Suitable Farming system
-   Accessibility to consumers

(c)        Reasons why tomato is best raised in the nursery before transplanting
-   Provides best conditions for growth
-   Facilitates the transplanting of vigorous and healthy seedlings
-   Helps to control weeds
-   Ensures quick germination of seeds
-   Wastage of seed is reduced
-   Minimizes the risks associated with sowing directly on the field since it gives
seedlings a head start
-   Easy to protect seedlings from pests and diseases
-   Enhances economy of land usage
-   Helps to harden seedlings before transplanting

(d)       Farm tools used in pruning ornamental plants
-   Secateurs                                         -   Shears
-   Cutlass                                            -   Pruning saw
-   Floral Scissors                                -   Lopper