Agriculture Paper 3, May/June 2015

Question 1

       Study specimens A, B, C, D and E carefully and answer the following questions.

    (a)   (i)  State one major feed nutrient in each of specimens A and E.       [ 2 marks ]
    (ii)  Mention three economic uses each of specimens A, B and C.     [ 9 marks ]

    (b)  (i)    State two functions of specimen D in farm animals.                     [2 marks ]

     (ii)    Highlight two benefits that a farmer would derive if specimen E is included in
    a crop rotation programme.                                                           [ 2 marks ]

Observation

This question was well attempted by the candidates.  In 1(a)(i-ii), majority of the candidates were able to state the major feed nutrients in specimens A(Bone) and E(Cowpea) as well as mention the economic uses of specimens A(Bone), B(Horn) and C(Hoof).  More so, most of the candidates were able to state the functions of specimen D(Water) in farm animals as required in 1b(i). However, in 1(b)(ii) most of them were unable to highlight the benefits of including specimen E(Cowpea) in a crop rotation programme.

The expected answers include:

    1 (b) (ii)      Benefits that a farmer would derive if specimen E (Cowpea) is included in a crop rotation programme

  • Source  of protein/food for the farmer
  • It can serve as a source of income to the farmer
  • It adds nitrogen to the soil thereby enhancing soil fertility
  • The plant can serve as source of fodder
  • Reduces erosion