Agricultural Studies

A number of grade 4 and 5 learners are instructed in Agricultural Studies, as one of four skills subjects. Generic farming, agricultural practices, horticulture, business/environmental practices and livestock care are the topics dealt with in Agricultural Studies. These terms are explained below:

Generic farming means to use natural resources to produce commodities which include food, fibre, forest products and horticultural crops.

Agricultural practices are specific methods which create food and goods for consumers or further processing.

Horticulture is the art or practice of growing fruits, vegetables, trees, flowers or ornamental plants in a garden, orchard or nursery.

Business practice is the application of storage management and stocktaking, the understanding of basic cost and income and the execution of basic entrepreneurial skill.

Environmental practice is the knowledge of beneficial plants, wild and cultivated, control of invasive plants, the interpretation of nature signs and the responsible use of water.

Livestock care involves the care, maintenance and utilization of small livestock such as chickens and rabbits.