Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - JHS 1
AGRICULTURAL TOOLS
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AGRICULTURAL TOOLS
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Science
Class: JHS 1
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 8
Grade code: B7.4.5.1.2
Strand code: 4
Sub-strand code: 5
Content standard code: B7.4.5.1
Indicator code: B7.4.5.1.2
Theme: FORCES AND ENERGY
Subtheme: AGRICULTURAL TOOLS
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Agriculture is a major part of life and work in Ghana—whether in farming communities or in home gardens. Farmers and gardeners use basic and simple agricultural tools (e.g., cutlass, hoe, rake, watering can) to clear land, prepare soil, plant, weed and harvest. When tools are handled well and maintained properly, they work better, last longer, reduce injuries, and save money. This lesson focuses on applying correct handling and maintenance rules for common tools used in the community.
A. Meaning of Agricultural Tools Agricultural tools are simple implements used to perform farm tasks such as land clearing, soil preparation, planting, weeding, harvesting, and carrying materials.
Basic and simple tools are hand tools that do not require engines or electricity (e.g., cutlass, hoe, rake, shovel, watering can, wheelbarrow).
B. Common Basic Agricultural Tools, Uses, and Correct Handling
Below are common tools in Ghana, their uses, and key handling points. 1) Cutlass (Machete) Uses: clearing weeds/bush, cutting stakes, harvesting some crops (e.g., plantain), making ridges in soft soil. Correct handling rules: Hold firmly by the handle; ensure handle is not loose. Cut away from your body and away from others. Maintain a safe distance (about 2–3 arm lengths) from the next person. Do not run with a cutlass; carry it with the blade pointing down and away. Use a sheath or wrap the blade when moving long distances. 2) Hoe Uses: weeding, making ridges/mounds, loosening soil, covering seeds. Correct handling rules: Check the hoe head is firmly fixed to the handle. Use correct posture: bend knees slightly; avoid excessive bending of the waist. Swing in a controlled manner; do not raise too high near others. Keep feet away from the striking area. 3) Rake Uses: gathering leaves/weeds, leveling soil, removing stones. Correct handling rules: Pull the rake toward you gently; avoid sudden jerks. Keep tines facing down when working; when carrying, point tines downward or cover them. Do not leave the rake with tines up (someone may step on it). 4) Shovel/Spade Uses: digging, scooping soil/manure, making planting holes, mixing compost. Correct handling rules: Step on the blade edge carefully (use footwear). Lift loads with knees, not only the back. Do not overload the shovel; carry manageable amounts. 5) Garden Fork Uses: turning compost, loosening soil, lifting root crops. Correct handling rules: Keep prongs down when carrying. Push into soil with controlled force; avoid aiming toward feet. 6) Watering Can Uses: watering seedlings and gardens. Correct handling rules: Do not fill beyond what you can carry safely. Water gently to avoid washing away seeds/seedlings. Keep the rose/nozzle clean to prevent blockage. 7) Wheelbarrow Uses: transporting soil, manure, harvested produce, tools. Correct handling rules: Check tyre pressure and handles. Balance the load; heavy items at the front over the wheel. Push steadily; do not overload. Use both hands; watch the path to avoid stones/holes. 8) Sickle Uses: harvesting rice, cutting grass/fodder. Correct handling rules: Cut away from the body; keep fingers away from the blade. Store with blade covered.