Agricultural Science 2 Nov/Dec 2011

Agricultural Science Paper 2, Nov/Dec 2011

Questions:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Main

General Comments
Weakness/Remedies
Strength

Question 10
(a) Explain the following terms as used in agricultural production: (i) hired labour; (ii) fixed capital; (iii) management. [9 marks] (b) Give three reasons why the prices of most agricultural produce are unstable in West Africa. [3 marks] (c) Describe the following agricultural extension teaching methods: (i) field day; (ii) agricultural shows. [4 marks]
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OBSERVATION
This question was fairly attempted by the candidates. In 10(a)(i-iii), many candidates were able to explain the terms: hired labour, fixed capital and management. Nevertheless, in 10(b), majority of the candidates could not give the reasons why prices of most agricultural produce are unstable in West Africa. Further to this, in 10(c), majority of the candidates could not describe field day and agricultural shows as extension teaching methods. The expected answers include: Reasons why prices of most agricultural produce are unstable in West Africa. In adequate storage facilities/pest invasion/disease attack Inadequate processing facilities Seasonality of agricultural produce Perishability of most agricultural produce Agricultural produce are highly bulky in relation to their value and this increases the transport cost Poor transportation system Agricultural produce are produced in small quantities by many farmers scattered about on small farms. This increases the cost of collecting, assembling and transporting them. Inadequate farmers’ cooperative societies Poor access to market information Cheap imports of agricultural produce of same kind or their substitutes. Absence/inadequacy of standard measuring devices for pricing purposes. Description of agricultural extension teaching methods Field day - It is a group method of agricultural extension. - It is a day set aside for opening successful farmers’ farms. - Improved agricultural inputs, implements and machinery are displayed to farmers - Series of demonstrations, speeches and other activities all focused on the central theme are lined up for the day - The overall goal is to promote new agricultural practices and to bring recognition to successful farmers in a particular field Agricultural shows This is a mass method of agricultural extension. Are held in towns and cities, and have a nationwide character. Selected farmers, input suppliers and other stakeholders in agriculture display their produce and products for recognition and awards. Characterized by festive moods, speeches, addresses and awards.