Hello, young learners! Welcome back to Primary 4 Pre-Vocational Studies, focusing on Agricultural Science. In our previous lesson, we learned about Meaning of Agriculture – Rearing Animals. Today, we’re going to learn about the Importance of Agriculture.
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
- Identify two sources of food and medicine.
- List two typical examples of raw materials.
Importance of Agriculture
Agriculture is the practice of cultivating plants and raising animals for food, fiber, and other products. It’s a vital part of our lives because it provides us with the food we eat and the medicine we need to stay healthy.
What is Agriculture?
Agriculture is the process of cultivating plants and raising animals for human use. It involves various activities like:
- Farming: Growing crops like wheat, rice, and vegetables.
- Animal Husbandry: Raising livestock like cows, chickens, and pigs.
- Fishing: Catching fish and other seafood.
- Forestry: Managing forests for timber and other products.
For Food
Some of the main sources of food from agriculture include:
- Grains: Such as wheat, rice, and maize (corn), are staple foods in many cultures.
- Fruits: Apples, oranges, bananas, and berries are rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, spinach, and tomatoes provide essential nutrients.
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt are derived from cows, goats, or sheep.
- Meat: From animals like cattle, poultry, and fish, is a source of protein.
- Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas are high in protein and fiber.
For Medicine
There are many sources of medicine derived from agriculture, such as:
- Herbs and Plants: Aloe vera, peppermint, and ginger are used in traditional medicine.
- Bark and Roots: Willow bark, a source of salicylic acid, is used to make aspirin.
- Animals: Honey, used for its antibacterial properties, and royal jelly are examples of animal-derived medicines.
- Microorganisms: Bacteria and fungi are used to produce antibiotics and other medicines.
- Minerals: Iron and calcium are used as dietary supplements.
- Synthetic Compounds: Many medicines are synthesized from chemical compounds derived from plants or animals.
Evaluation Questions
Now that you’ve learned about the importance of agriculture, let’s see if you can answer these questions:
- What are two sources of food?
- What are two sources of medicine?
- Give two examples of raw materials used in agriculture.
Conclusion
Agriculture is essential for our survival. It provides us with the food we eat and the medicine we need to stay healthy. Remember to appreciate the hard work of farmers and other agricultural workers who make these things possible. Don’t forget to check the comments section if you have any questions, and use the navigation to move to the next lesson. See you in the next lesson!
