### Lesson Plan: Prevocational Studies for Primary 4
**Topic:** Horticultural Activities in Agriculture + How to Prepare Liquid Soap
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**Grade Level:** Primary 4
**Subject:** Prevocational Studies
**Duration:** 60 Minutes
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#### **Objectives:**
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
1. Understand the basic concepts of horticulture and its importance in agriculture.
2. Identify common horticultural activities.
3. Learn the step-by-step process of preparing liquid soap.
4. Recognize the importance of hygiene and cleanliness.
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#### **Materials Needed:**
- Chart papers and markers
- Pictures of different horticultural activities (e.g., planting, watering, weeding)
- Seeds and small pots with soil (for demonstration)
- Ingredients for making liquid soap (e.g., water, sodium hydroxide, oils)
- Gloves and safety goggles
- Mixing bowl and stirring rod
- Washing-up liquid containers
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#### **Introduction (10 minutes):**
1. **Greeting and Settle-in:** Begin with a warm greeting and allow the students to settle down.
2. **Introduction to the Lesson:** Briefly introduce the topic; explain that they will be learning about horticultural activities and how to make liquid soap.
3. **Engage Students:** Ask students if they have seen or participated in gardening activities at home or school. Show pictures/videos of various horticultural activities to grab attention.
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#### **Body (40 minutes):**
**Part 1: Horticultural Activities (20 minutes)**
1. **Definition and Importance:**
- Explain what horticulture is: "Horticulture is the art and science of growing fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants."
- Discuss its importance in agriculture and daily life.
2. **Horticultural Activities:**
- Introduce and explain basic horticultural activities: planting, watering, weeding, and harvesting.
- Use chart papers or slides to show the steps involved in each activity.
3. **Practical Demonstration:**
- Demonstrate how to plant a seed.
- Guide students through the process while explaining the importance of soil, water, and sunlight.
- Allow a few volunteers to plant seeds in small pots provided.
**Interactive Activity:**
- Students can draw and label their own garden on paper.
- Discuss what types of plants they would like to grow.
**Part 2: Preparing Liquid Soap (20 minutes)**
1. **Introduction to Liquid Soap Making:**
- Explain the importance of ensuring cleanliness and how liquid soap helps in maintaining hygiene.
- Briefly discuss the ingredients needed to make liquid soap.
2. **Safety First:**
- Discuss the importance of safety while handling chemicals. Ensure students know to wear gloves and safety goggles.
3. **Step-by-Step Process:**
- Demonstrate the process:
a. **Preparing the Ingredients:** Show the required ingredients and their measurements.
b. **Mixing:** Carefully mix the sodium hydroxide with water and oils in a mixing bowl.
c. **Stirring and Setting:** Stir thoroughly until the mixture achieves the right consistency.
d. **Bottling:** Once the mixture is ready, pour it into the containers.
4. **Interactive Session:**
- Allow children to participate in non-hazardous parts of the soap-making process like stirring and bottling under supervision.
5. **Discussion:**
- Discuss where and how the liquid soap can be used.
- Highlight the importance of washing hands regularly.
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#### **Conclusion (10 minutes):**
1. **Recap:**
- Summarize the key points learned about horticultural activities and making liquid soap.
- Ask review questions to reinforce learning (e.g., "What are some examples of horticultural activities?").
2. **Student Reflection:**
- Let the students share what they enjoyed the most and what they found challenging or interesting.
3. **Closing:**
- Assign a simple home activity: Ask students to observe a small plant or garden at home and note any horticultural activities they see.
- Thank the students for their participation and enthusiasm.
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#### **Assessment:**
- Participation in class discussions and activities.
- Observation of students’ engagement during the practical demonstration.
- Evaluate the drawings of their garden and their contributions during the liquid soap-making session.
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By the end of the lesson, students should have a basic understanding of horticultural activities and the process of making liquid soap, along with an appreciation for the importance of hygiene and the role of agriculture in everyday life.