This question was poorly attempted by the candidates. In 1(a), most of the candidates were unable to state the aim of the experiment. In 1(b), many candidates could not name the soil type illustrated by diagram B. Also, in 1(c), many candidates could not state the conditions of soil samples A and B when dry and when moist. Majority of the candidates were unable to state the soil management practices that can be used to improve soil sample B as required in 1(d). Also, in 1(e), many candidates could not name the crops that can be successfully grown on soil sample A.
However, in 1(f) and (g), majority of the candidates were able to name the soil sample with higher water holding capacity and greater soil temperature.
The expected answers include:
Aim of the experiment
To determine the soil texture.
Soil types illustrated by diagrams A and B
A: Clay
B: Sandy loam/Loam
Conditions of the soil samples when dry and moist
A:
Dry: Hard, Fine, Powdery
Moist: Sticky/Plastic/Smooth
B:
Dry: Loose, rough to touch, coarse
Moist: Moderately sticky/Not Plastic
Soil management practices that can be used to improve soil sample B
- Addition of organic manure/Green manuring;
- Leave to fallow/fallowing;
- Cover cropping;
- Liming;
- Addition of fertilizers
Crops that can be successfully grown on soil sample A
-
Rice;
-
Sugarcane;
-
Cocoa;
-
Rubber;
-
Bananas/plantains