Agriculture
Agriculture
CURRICULUM
AGRICULTURE
SYLLABUS
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
ADVANCED SECONDARY
CURRICULUM
AGRICULTURE
SYLLABUS
i
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ISBN: 978-9970-675-45-6
ii
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
CONTENTS
Foreword ........................................................................................................................................... v
Acknowledgements .......................................................................................................................vi
1.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................1
1.1. Changes in the Curriculum .................................................................................................................................1
1.2. Classroom Based Assessment ............................................................................................................................2
1.3. Learners with Special Education Needs ......................................................................................................2
1.4. Generic Skills ................................................................................................................................................................3
1.5. Cross-Cutting Issues.................................................................................................................................................4
1.6. Values ................................................................................................................................................................................4
1.7. Information and Communication Technology Integration .............................................................4
1.8. Projects ............................................................................................................................................................................5
1.9. The Aims of Secondary Education ..................................................................................................................6
1.10. Aims of the Advanced Level Curriculum ....................................................................................................6
1.11. Subject Overview ......................................................................................................................................................7
1.12. Rationale for Teaching Agriculture at Advanced Level.......................................................................7
1.13. Time Allocation ...........................................................................................................................................................7
1.14. Programme Planner .................................................................................................................................................8
1.15 Note to Users ...............................................................................................................................................................9
2.0 Detailed Syllabus .................................................................................................................... 10
Senior Five Term 1 ......................................................................................................................... 10
Construct: Animal Production ................................................................................................... 10
Topic 1: Agricultural Biology in Crops and Animals .......................................................................................... 10
Senior Five Term 2 ......................................................................................................................... 12
Construct: Animal Production ................................................................................................... 12
Topic 2: Anatomy, Morphology and Physiology ................................................................................................. 12
Topic 3: Livestock Management and Rearing Practices ................................................................................. 14
Senior Five Term 3 ......................................................................................................................... 16
Construct: Animal Production ................................................................................................... 16
Topic 4: Harvesting Farm Animals and Animal Products ............................................................................... 16
Construct: Value Addition for the Market ................................................................................ 18
Topic 5: Value Addition to Farm Animals and Animal Products................................................................. 18
Construct: Value Addition for the Market ................................................................................ 21
Topic 6: Animal Product Marketing ............................................................................................................................. 21
Senior Six Term 1 ........................................................................................................................... 23
Construct: Crop Production ........................................................................................................ 23
Topic 1: Land Policy............................................................................................................................................................... 23
Construct: Crop Production ........................................................................................................ 26
Topic 2: Soil Systems............................................................................................................................................................. 26
Construct: Crop Production ........................................................................................................ 29
Topic 3: Crop Production and Husbandry............................................................................................................... 29
iii
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
iv
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
Foreword
The Ministry of Education and Sports, through the National Curriculum Development Centre
(NCDC), aligned the Advanced Level Curriculum with the competency-based Lower Secondary
Curriculum (LSC) to ensure a smooth learner transition from lower secondary to advanced level.
The two-year aligned Advanced Secondary Curriculum adopted learner-centered approaches,
inquiry-based, and discovery methods. The learning outcomes give the learner hands-on
experiences in real-life situations while being cognizant of different learner abilities and learning
styles. The syllabus focuses on assessment for learning with emphasis on criterion-referenced
assessment. It further provides learners with the opportunity to enhance the 21st-century skills
and values that were acquired at the lower secondary level.
This Agriculture syllabus promotes learners application of agricultural knowledge in relation to
what happens in their communities. It promotes acquisition of Higher-order Thinking Skills
(HOTS) such as inquiry, creativity and innovation, decision-making, critical thinking and
problem-solving. It calls for use of learner centred pedagogies with hands-on experience by the
learners in real life situations, while acknowledging different learner abilities and learning styles.
As the Minister responsible for Education, I, endorse this syllabus as the official document for
teaching and learning Agriculture at the Advanced Level of secondary education in Uganda.
v
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) is indebted to the Government of
Uganda for financing the alignment of the Advanced Level Curriculum to Lower Secondary
Education in Uganda.
Our gratitude goes to the Ministry of Education and Sports for overseeing the adaptation of the
curriculum, the Curriculum Task Force of the Ministry of Education and Sports for the oversight
role and making timely decisions whenever necessary, and members of the public who made
helpful contributions towards shaping this curriculum.
NCDC is also grateful to Members of Parliament, schools, universities, and other tertiary
institutions, the writing panels, and professional bodies, for their input in the design and
development of the Adapted A level curriculum. To all those who worked behind the scenes to
finalise the adaptation process of this teaching syllabus, your efforts are invaluable.
NCDC takes responsibility for any shortcomings that might be identified in this publication and
welcomes suggestions for effectively addressing the inadequacies. Such comments and
suggestions may be communicated to NCDC through P. O Box 7002, Kampala, or Email:
[email protected] or on the Website: www.ncdc.go.ug
Dr Grace K. Baguma
Director
National Curriculum Development Centre
vi
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
1.0
1.0 INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The Advanced Secondary Curriculum has been aligned with the Lower Secondary competency-
based model for ease of progression of learners from the Lower to Advanced Secondary Level.
The alignment is a result of the analysis of the Advanced Level Curriculum published in 2013, to
determine whether the content is:
i) appropriate
ii) high pitched or overload
iii) covered at lower secondary
iv) obsolete
v) repeated in different topics and redundant
The results from the curriculum analysis revealed that there were overlaps of concepts with
what was covered at the Lower Secondary, as well as concepts within different topics of the
same subject. In addition, a number of syllabuses had content that is no longer necessary for
today’s contemporary society and the 21st century.
1
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
2
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
prepare them for lifelong learning. These skills equip learners with the ability to adapt to change
and navigate life’s challenges in the 21st century.
The key generic skills include:
Communication
i) Listening attentively and with comprehension
ii) Talk
iii) Reading accurately and fluently
iv) Writing and presenting information coherently
v) Using a range of media to communicate ideas
Mathematical Computation
i) Using numbers and measurements accurately
ii) Interpreting and interrogating mathematical data
iii) Using mathematics to justify and support decisions
3
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
i) Environmental awareness
ii) Health awareness
iii)Life skills
iv) Mixed abilities and involvement
v) Socio-economic challenges
vi) Citizenship and patriotism
These are a concern to all mankind irrespective of their areas of speciality. They are infused into
the different learning outcomes of the different subjects.
1.6. Values
The curriculum is based on a clear set of values. These values underpin the whole curriculum
and the work of schools. Learners need to base themselves on these values as citizens of
Uganda. These values are derived from the Uganda National Ethics and Values Policy of 2013.
They are:
4
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
ICT teachers should endeavour to assist other subject teachers in making the ICT integration
process a reality. The table below shows a sample of suggested ICT tools that may be applied
to given tasks.
Sample Task in the Syllabus Suggested ICT Tool
Fieldwork Use of cameras to take photos and record videos
Locate places on a map Use digital maps such as Google Maps or an
equivalent application.
Presentation in class Use presentation applications or online
presentation tools like Canva
Search for keywords and meanings Use an online dictionary or search online
Make drawing/graphics Use drawing tools like Draw.io or publishing
software/Word processor
Roleplay, narrations Use audio and video recordings
Demonstrations Use audio/video recordings, models, simulations,
or virtual labs
Analyse and present data Use spreadsheet software or any other analytics
tools
Group discussions Mind mapping software
Search for extra reading materials Download files from the Internet from academic
Databases
Writing equations and formulae Use equation editors like MathType
Carry out academic search/research Use the Internet, AI models, and other academic
applications like “Encarta”, “Britannica”, etc.
Collaborate with others across the world Form learning networks with blogs, social media,
emails, and videoconferencing tools like Zoom,
MS Teams, Webex, Google Meet or any other
networking application.
1.8. Projects
Projects and project-based learning are part and parcel of learning in the 21st century. A number
of tasks have been integrated in the syllabus for different topics. You are encouraged to develop
more project-based learning tasks with your learners that can easily be linked to what is
happening in your local environment. While doing this, make effort to keep aligned to the
learning outcomes of the topic you are teaching.
5
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
i) instil and promote national unity, an understanding of the social and civic
responsibilities, strong love and care for others and respect for public property, as well
as an appreciation of international relations and beneficial international co-operation;
ii) promote an appreciation and understanding of the cultural heritage of Uganda
including its languages;
iii) impart and promote a sense of self discipline, ethical and spiritual values, personal and
collective responsibility and initiative;
iv) enable individuals to acquire and develop knowledge and an understanding of
emerging needs of society and the economy;
v) provide an up-to-date and a comprehensive knowledge in theoretical and practical
aspects of innovative production, modern management methods in the field of
commerce and industry and their application in the context of socio-economic
development of Uganda;
vi) enable individuals to develop basic scientific, technological, technical, agricultural and
commercial skills required for self-employment;
vii) enable individuals to develop personal skills of problem-solving, information gathering
and interpretation, independent reading and writing, self-improvement through
learning and development of social, physical and leadership skills such as are obtained
through games, sports, societies and clubs;
viii) lay the foundation for further education;
ix) enable the individual to apply acquired skills in solving the problems of his/her
community, and to develop a strong sense of constructive and beneficial belonging to
that community;
x) instil positive attitudes towards productive work and strong respect for the dignity of
labour and those who engage in productive labour activities;
xi) develop a positive attitude towards learning as a lifelong process.
6
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
i) equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills in sustainable agriculture, including
crop management, animal husbandry, and value addition to agricultural product,
ii) enable learners to acquire knowledge and skills to contribute to the transformation of the
agricultural sector and improvement of agricultural productivity,
i) Animal production
ii) Crop production
iii) Value addition to crop, animal and their product for the consumer
The aligned syllabus has been developed with a new scope and sequence. Its main focus is a
value chain approach. There are 2 value chains, viz:
7
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
Total 90
Total 72
8
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
Total 81
Senior Six 5. Crop and Crop Product 5.1 Cobweb Theorem Application in 24
Term 3 Marketing Crop and Crop Products
Marketing
Marketing Organisation of Crop
5.2 and Crop Products 30
Total 54
The learning activities and assessment strategies in the syllabus are “suggested” and “samples”
respectively and not exhaustive. Teacher is encouraged to develop more learning activities and
assessment strategies that are based on the learning outcomes. In addition, teacher is free to
customise the suggested learning activities to make them suitable for their respective learning
environments and for learners with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
9
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
2.0 DETAILED
DETAILED SYLLABUS
SYLLABUS
10
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use reputable online resources like Open Educational Resources for Agriculture, Open Genetics,
Khan Academy and Educational YouTube channels to gather background information on cells,
biochemical compound, genetics, various agricultural biology experiments and project-based
learning task.
2) Use interactive simulations to create virtual experiments to manipulate variables to see how
changes affect diffusion, osmosis, and active transport.
3) Participate in a simulation game to understand the process of cellular respiration and the role of
biochemical compounds like glucose and ATP.
4) Use PowerPoint, Prezi, or other presentation software to present their findings from scientific
investigation, inquiry or methods.
5) Use Excel or Google Sheets for students to input their data on how to predict the outcomes of
genetic crosses according to Mendelian theory.
11
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
12
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use digital forms or apps (e.g., Google Forms) for learners to input data on morphological
features, health status, and other observations of the animals in real-time.
2) Use tablets or smartphones after getting permission and consent to take photos, videos, record
interviews with the farmer and notes during the field visit.
3) Use any word processor to write the field visit report.
4) Use tools like Google Docs or Microsoft OneNote for learners to collaboratively write their field
visit report.
5) Use virtual dissection software to complement the hands-on dissection and to allow you
explore and understand the anatomy of the animal in a controlled repeatable environment.
6) Write and send emails to your instructor or any relevant stakeholder to demonstrate how to
professionally communicate dissection findings.
13
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
14
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use tools like Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Prezi to create engaging presentations
that showcase the business model canvas and key insights.
2) Use word processors like Microsoft Word or Google Docs to write details that explain your
business model canvas and justify your decisions.
3) Use digital scales to measure feed samples accurately and sensors for collecting data on
moisture content, temperature, and other relevant parameters when analysing feed samples.
4) Utilize spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to input raw data and
perform calculations for nutrient composition when analysing feed samples.
5) Use apps or software designed for analysing the nutrient composition of animal feeds to obtain
detailed accurate information on protein, fat, carbohydrate content, mineral salts and more
when analysing feed samples.
6) Use word processors like Microsoft Word or Google Docs to write a detailed report on analysis
of feed samples and ensuring proper formatting, grammar checks, and the inclusion of
multimedia elements.
7) Use the internet and digital libraries to research different animals, or specifically, the selected
animal and their habitats.
8) Use digital whiteboards to display instructions, diagrams, and videos of constructing of a
selected animal.
9) Create detailed plans and models using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
10) Utilize platforms like YouTube or educational websites that show videos on proper animal care
techniques for the selected animal.
11) Use apps, Google sheets or software to maintain records of feeding schedules, health checks,
and growth progress when performing the required management and rearing practices.
12) Use online platforms to remotely consult with veterinarians or animal health experts to access
professional guidance on handling and treating ill animals.
13) Use available mobile apps to access information on animal care, symptoms of common
illnesses, and first aid procedures for the selected animal.
14) Utilize health monitoring devices that can track an animal's vital signs, animal occupational
safety and health parameters for the selected animal.
15
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
16
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use online databases and resources where you find up-to-date information on international and
local regulations and safety standards for farm animal harvesting and animal product safety.
2) Use presentation software like PowerPoint, Prezi, or Canva to create visually appealing and
informative leaflets on local and international regulations regarding farm animal harvesting and
animal product safety.
3) Share your leaflets and findings on local and international regulations regarding farm animal
harvesting and animal product safety using available social media platforms,
4) Utilize platforms like YouTube or educational websites that show step-by-step videos on the
proper procedures for harvesting animals and products.
5) Use apps or software to maintain digital records of the harvesting process, including animal
health data, harvesting schedules, and product quality and pay attention to details and track
progress.
6) Create digital journals, blogs, or presentations documenting animal harvesting experiences, the
decisions made during the process, and the emotions felt each time of harvest and word
process all these into reflective paragraphs.
17
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
18
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
19
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use tablets or smartphones after getting permission and consent to take notes, photos, and
videos during the farm visit so that the learner can capture observations in real-time about farm
animal and animal products and have visual references for including in the word-processed
reports.
2) Use video conferencing tools like Zoom or Skype to facilitate live interviews, interaction, or
Question and Answer sessions on value addition to farm animal and animal products.
3) Use digital cameras after getting permission and consent to take high-quality images of the post-
harvest processes to be included in the reports as visual evidence of findings for the farm visit
where farm animal and animal products are obtained from.
4) Use online resources and databases where to find additional information about best practices in
post-harvest handling and market readiness of farm animal and animal products.
5) Use software like PowerPoint, Canva, or Prezi to create engaging and visually appealing reports
on experiences and findings about value addition to farm animal and animal products.
6) Use digital maps to mark different locations and stages of the post-harvest process of farm animal
and animal products.
7) Use online resources to research on local and international regulations regarding packaging,
labelling, and advertising to ensure that the designs created are compliant with industry
standards for value addition to farm animal and animal products.
8) Use graphic design tools like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or Canva to create professional-
looking packaging designs, logos, and labels for farm animal and animal products.
9) Use survey platforms like Google Forms, Kobo Collect or SurveyMonkey to gather feedback on
the designs and advertising concepts of farm animal and animal products.
10) Create social media marketing strategies using platforms like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp or
TikTok to establish and appreciate the importance of digital marketing and audience
engagement for farm animal and animal products.
20
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
i) analyse market i) In groups, learners i) The teacher checks for accuracy and
trends and conduct a market coherence of the market survey report
opportunities to survey and (subject knowledge, organisation, structure,
determine the most investigation to technical correctness, being attractive to the
profitable market identify trends and reader and communication effectiveness)
channels for farm opportunities for including how data was collected, the
animal and animal farm animals and sampling methods, the use of appropriate
products. (k, u, s, animal products charts, graphs, and tables to visually
v/a, g s) using survey tools represent findings, a detailed analysis of the
ii) execute a marketing and templates that data gathered, recommendation and the
strategy that will support their lesson learnt about the market channel of
effectively presentation of farm animals and animal products.
promotes farm findings in a ii) The teacher converses and checks learners
animals and animal report. using prompts like; what market trends and
products to target ii) In groups, learners opportunities did you identify? How did you
markets. (k, u, s, v/a, participate in a respond to changes in the market? What
g s) project-based were the most profitable market channels
learning task using for your product? What did you learn about
the driving the importance of market analysis and
question of; how adaptation in the agriculture industry?
can we execute a iii) The teacher uses the observation checklist
marketing and scoring grid with a scale of 1–4 to
campaign that record achievement on several areas
promotes farm including group work behaviour, being on
animals and task, group work participation,
animal products to communication to an audience,
target markets in organisation of portfolio, use and
our community. application of concepts when learners are
engaged in project-based learning.
21
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use tools like Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, or Typeform to create and distribute surveys so that
there is easy and fast data collection and analysis of data on animal product marketing.
2) Use computer software like Excel, Google Sheets, or Tableau to analyze survey data and identify
trends and opportunities after visualizing the data through charts and graphs for data on animal
product marketing.
3) Use digital whiteboards like SMART Boards to display survey instructions, diagrams, and videos
to help in visualizing the steps involved in the market survey process during animal product
marketing.
4) Use the internet and digital libraries to conduct research on market trends and opportunities to
enhance marketing of farm animals and animal products.
5) Use graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Canva, or Photoshop to create logos,
branding materials, and packaging designs for the marketing campaign.
6) Execute a social media campaign using platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok, Facebook,
and Twitter.
7) Create an online presence for their marketing campaign by developing a website for the
marketing campaign using website builders like Wix, WordPress, or Squarespace to put the
animal product features or information, blogs, and an online store.
8) Use presentation software like PowerPoint, Prezi, or Canva to create presentations summarizing
the animal product marketing research carried out, strategies employed, and the marketing
campaign results.
22
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
23
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use Wakelet, Google Space, Google Docs, Microsoft OneDrive, or Dropbox Paper for creating
and sharing documents related to the role-play scenario so that you can collaboratively write
scripts, gather resources, and develop their arguments using scenario about land ownership,
boundary marks or a community struggle to access land for farming.
2) Use the internet and digital libraries to research real-life land tenure issues, the national land
tenure legal frameworks, and land policy case studies to gather information to enrich their role -
play
24
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
25
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
26
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
27
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
2) Take photos of the sampling sites and soil samples using smartphones or digital cameras.
Upload these images to a shared online platform like Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive to
keep a detailed record of their work and provides a reference for analysis and reporting.
3) Research soil analysis protocols and best practices using online resources, academic journals,
and agriculture soil systems databanks to gain a deeper understanding of soil science and learn
to evaluate and apply information from credible sources.
4) Use platforms like Google Classroom or Microsoft Teams for group discussions, sharing data, and
collaborative report writing to enhances teamwork and communication skills
5) Use the internet to research soil profiles, types of soil, and their characteristics to gain a deeper
understanding of soil science and the importance of different soil layers.
6) Use smartphones or digital cameras to document the process of creating the edible soil profile
cup. Students can take photos at each stage and upload them to a shared online platform like
Google Drive or OneDrive to keep a detailed record of the work and provides material for the
poster.
7) Utilize graphic design software like Canva, Adobe Spark, or even PowerPoint to create the poster
by taking advantages of templates, design elements, and easy-to-use interfaces for creating
visually appealing posters and to develop digital design skills and produce professional-quality
posters for a soil profile
8) Watch educational videos on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy that explain soil profiles
and soil science to interact with additional context and visual explanations
9) Use the internet to research soil ecosystem services and landscape functions to gain a
comprehensive understanding of soil management principles and practices.
10) Use soil analysis software like SoilWeb or web-based soil surveys to assess soil properties and
identify appropriate management practices to learn how to use digital tools for soil analysis and
make data-driven decisions on soil management principles and practices.
11) Use simulation tools like the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to model the impact of
different soil management strategies on ecosystem services and landscape functions to
understand the potential outcomes of their strategies and learn to adjust them based on
simulated results.
12) Use the internet to research recipes and methods for preparing organic fertilizers to gain a
comprehensive understanding of the principles and best practices for making organic fertilizers.
13) Use smartphones or digital cameras to take photos and videos of the fertilizer preparation
process and upload to a shared platform like Google Drive or YouTube to create a detailed
record of the work and provides material for presentations and report.
14) Use platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft Teams for group discussions, sharing ideas,
and collaborative work on organic fertilizers in real-time, even if they are in different locations.
15) Use tools like Excel or Google Sheets to record and analyse data on the effectiveness of the
fertilizers and track growth rates, plant health, and other metrics to evaluate the impact of the
organic fertilizers.
16) Use virtual labs or simulations to explore the chemical processes involved in composting and
organic fertilizer production.
28
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
i) establish a crop i) In groups, learners prepare i) The teacher checks for accuracy and
enterprise to the business model canvas of coherence of the components of a
demonstrate a selected crop enterprise business model canvas prepared for
that demonstrates optimal establishing a crop enterprise.
optimal
production practices. ii) The teacher observes learners with a
production ii) Learners individually think, psychomotor skills checklist as they
practices within then pair-up and share with are preparing a seedbed and nursery
the community. the class how they can seek bed where necessary for a selected
(k, u, s, v/a, gs) permission to acquire land to crop.
ii)manage the establish a community-based iii) The teacher checks for accuracy and
and an individual crop coherence (subject knowledge,
selected crop to
enterprise and then write a organisation, structure, technical
demonstrate proposal to acquire land for correctness, being attractive to the
optimal growing a crop. reader and communication
production iii) In groups, learners establish a effectiveness) of the written proposal
practices within community-based and an to acquire land.
the community. individual crop enterprise that iv) The teacher checks and converses
(k, u, s, v/a, gs) demonstrates optimal with learners using the psychomotor
production practices. observation checklist (for Imitation,
iii) apply basic iv) As a class, learners prepare a manipulation, precision, articulation
occupational nursery and or field seedbed and naturalisation) during the
health, safety for a selected crop. establishing of the crop enterprise for
and v) In groups, learners select, optimal production.
environmental procure and prepare planting v) The teacher checks, observes and
protection materials suitable for the converses with learners using
selected crop. psychomotor observational checklist
practices in
vi) Individually, learners (for imitation, manipulation, precision,
production of a plant/sow or transplant articulation and naturalisation),
selected crop. seedlings of the selected crop affective observational checklist
(k, u, s, v/a, gs) to establish the crop (starting with receiving/ attending to,
enterprise. responding, valuing, organising and
vii) As a class or individually, characterising) and the 25 steps in the
learners perform agronomic scientific investigation protocol in
practices while observing preparing a nursery bed, preparing
occupational health and planting materials, in planting the
safety practices in growing. crop.
29
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft Teams for group discussions, sharing ideas,
and collaborative work when creating the Business Model Canvas to gain a deeper
understanding of the production practices and market dimension.
2) Use tools like Excel, or Google Sheets to analyse data on crop production performance, costs,
and revenue for the selected crop.
3) Use the internet to research optimal production practices for the selected crop and best
practices for preparing nurseries and seedbeds for the selected crop gain a comprehensive
understanding of the steps and techniques involved in to a nursery or seedbed.
4) Use mobile apps or digital platforms like Google Docs or Microsoft OneNote to document the
process of preparing the nursery or seedbed, including materials used, steps followed, and
observations to develop skills in systematic documentation and record-keeping, which are
essential for agricultural research and management.
5) Watch educational videos and tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy that explain
the process of preparing nurseries and seedbeds.
6) Use mobile apps like PlantSnap, Agrobase, or Garden Answers to identify plant species, diagnose
plant health issues, and get recommendations for optimal growing conditions to develop skills
in using technology for plant care and management.
7) Use smartphones or digital cameras to take photos and videos of the planting materials and the
preparation process and upload these visuals to a shared platform like Google Drive or YouTube
to create a detailed record of the work and provides material for presentations and reports.
8) Watch educational videos and tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy that explain
the process of selecting, procuring, and preparing planting materials.
9) Use the internet to research on the best practices for planting, sowing, or transplanting
seedlings
10) Use mobile apps or digital platforms like Google Docs or Microsoft OneNote to document the
planting process, including steps followed, materials used, and observations.
11) Use smartphones or digital cameras to take photos and videos of the planting or transplanting
process.
12) Watch educational videos and tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy that explain
the process of planting, sowing, or transplanting seedlings.
30
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
i) demonstrate i) As a class, learners make a field i) The teacher checks for accuracy
understanding of visit to a farm to observe the and coherence (subject
various harvesting harvesting of crops or knowledge, organisation,
techniques for the alternatively, learners interact structure, technical correctness,
selected crop for the with a video simulating the being attractive to the reader
market. (k, u, s, v/a, harvesting techniques of crops and communication
gs) identifying how each method effectiveness) of the report about
might affect crop quality and the visit or reflective paragraph
ii) harvest the crop
yield and write a report or on the video/simulation using a
adhering to the local
reflective paragraph on the scoring grid of 1 –4 as indicate
and international
experiences. personal insights gained from
regulations for crop
ii) In pairs or groups, learners the experiences.
harvesting and
analyse a case study (showing ii) The teacher checks for accuracy
product safety. (k, u,
crop type, weather conditions, and coherence (subject
s, v/a, gs)
market demand, and available knowledge, organisation,
resources) examining the structure, technical correctness,
interplay between various being attractive to the reader
factors about harvesting and communication
technique based on cost, effectiveness) of the synthesis
labour, efficiency, and potential and understanding of the case
market outcomes. study highlighting the interplay
iii) In groups, learners harvest a between various factors about
selected crop observing the harvesting.
protocol and guidelines of food iii) The teacher checks and observes
safety and hygiene. learners using a protocol and
iv) In groups, learners engage in a guidelines for food safety and
project-based learning task of hygiene which include
how can we apply a modern highlighting the pre-harvest
harvesting technique to the (field sanitation, crop monitoring,
selected crop. workers hygiene); harvest (clean
equipment and tools, proper
crop product handling,
separating
contaminated/damaged or good
31
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use the internet to research best practices for agronomic activities and occupational health and
safety standards for the selected crop to gain a thorough understanding of agronomic practices
and the importance of safety in farming.
2) Use mobile apps or digital platforms like Google Docs or Microsoft OneNote to document
agronomic practices, safety measures taken, and observations including data on soil conditions,
crop growth, and safety compliance.
3) Use smartphones or digital cameras to take photos and videos of agronomic practices and safety
procedures.
4) Use platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, or Slack for group discussions, sharing
ideas, and collaborative planning of agronomic activities.
5) Use mobile apps like PlantSnap, Agrobase, or Garden Answers to identify plant species, diagnose
plant health issues, and get recommendations for optimal growing conditions.
6) Watch educational videos and tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy that explain
agronomic practices and safety standard to provide additional context and visual explanations.
7) Use digital tools like Google Forms or Peergrade to gather feedback on agronomic practices and
safety compliance in the selected crop.
32
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
i) perform the required i) In groups, learners conduct i) The teacher checks for
marketing functions on a market survey to accuracy and coherence of
crop and crop products, understand consumer the report (subject
adhering to the local and preferences and the local knowledge, organisation,
international regulations. (k, or international regulatory structure, technical
u, s, v/a, gs) requirements of the correctness, being attractive
ii) manage cash flows from selected crop or crop to the reader and
crop enterprise for product including making communication effectiveness)
sustainability. (k, u, s, v/a, a report or a leaflet. for analysis of market trends,
gs) ii) In pairs, learners analyse consumer demands and
iii) c) apply the cobweb case studies with details on regulatory requirements and
theorem to predict market the enterprise’s financial including the
fluctuations and how to strategies, cash flows, recommendations about
stabilise prices for farmers challenges faced, and the marketing their assigned crop
of crops in their outcomes achieved to or product.
community. (k, u, s, v/a, gs) identify the key factors that ii) The teacher checks for
contributed to the crop accuracy and coherence
enterprise’s financial (subject knowledge,
success. organisation, structure,
iii) In groups, learners analyse technical correctness, being
a case study and apply the attractive to the reader and
cobweb theorem to communication effectiveness)
predict market fluctuations. of the synthesis and
understanding of the case
study highlighting how they
can apply the lessons learned
to their own marketing efforts.
iii) The teacher checks for
accuracy and coherence
(subject knowledge,
organisation, structure,
technical correctness, being
attractive to the reader and
communication effectiveness)
of the synthesis and
33
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
ICT support to the suggested learning activities to leverage resource efficiency as the learners can
actively participate and engage in activities without limitation (as many times as possible)
1) Use the internet to research the specific crops and harvesting techniques of the selected and
established crop.
2) Use smartphones or digital cameras to take photos and videos of the harvesting process then
upload to a shared platform like Google Drive or YouTube for later review and analysis.
3) Watch educational videos and tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy that explain
the harvesting process and techniques.
4) Arrange for virtual guest speakers who are experts in crop harvesting to give talks and answer
questions before or after the field visit.
5) Use tools like MindMeister or Miro to create interactive mind maps that organize key factors,
strategies, and challenges identified in the case studies to help in understanding connections
and relationships.
6) Use the internet to research the cobweb theorem, its principles, and real-world applications in
crop production.
7) Arrange for virtual guest speakers who are experts in economics and market analysis to give talks
and answer questions about the cobweb theorem and market fluctuations.
34
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
3.0
3.0 ASSESSMENT
ASSESSMENT
3.1 Overview of Assessment
In a competency-based learning model, assessment focuses on checking and evaluating
learners' mastery of specific skills and knowledge rather than their performance on traditional
tests and assignments. This approach uses a variety of assessment methods, including scientific
investigation, projects checklist, and reflective activities, to measure learners' abilities to apply
their learning in real-world or real-life contexts.
Since teaching and assessment have the same purpose —to help individuals learn —teachers
need to plan them as complementary aspects of one activity. Teachers can use different
assessment types to gather information. They can use this information for a variety of purposes,
including:
Purpose of assessment
Diagnostic Formative Summative Evaluative
To identify strength To use assessment To acknowledge, To inform curriculum
and areas of information to record and report planning and to
improvement and to make specific learners’ overall provide information
inform the next steps. improvements in performance and for monitoring and
learning. achievement at a accountability.
point in time.
This means that assessment is the cornerstone of good learning and teaching. It can make a
vital contribution to improving educational outcomes for all learners. It is about collecting,
interpreting and using information to give a deeper appreciation of what individuals know and
understand, their skills and capabilities, and what their learning experiences enable them to do.
This suggests what the teacher must include as shown below:
Making assessment an integral part of daily mathematics instruction is a challenge. It requires
planning specific ways to use assignments and discussions to discover what students do and
do not understand. It also requires teachers to be prepared to deal with students’ responses.
Merely spotting when students are incorrect is relatively easy compared with understanding
the reasons behind their errors. The latter demands careful attention and a deep knowledge of
the mathematics concepts and principles that students are learning… The insights we gain by
making assessment a regular part of instruction enable us to meet the needs of the students
who are eager for more challenges and to provide intervention for those who are struggling.
Burns 2005, p. 31
35
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
Assessment is part and parcel of the teaching and learning process, facilitating learning and
improving instruction, and can take a variety of forms. Among the different forms is classroom-
based assessment. Classroom-based assessment in competency-based learning (CBL) is a
continuous, formative, and learner-centred process. It evaluates learners' mastery of specific
skills and knowledge during teaching and learning. As a result, classroom assessment is
generally divided into three types: assessment for learning, assessment of learning and
assessment as learning.
After teaching a lesson, we need to determine whether the lesson was accessible to all
students; what is still challenging to the more capable; what the students learned and
still need to know; how we can improve the lesson to make it more effective; and, if
necessary, what other lesson we might offer as a better alternative. This continual
evaluation of instructional choices is at the heart of improving our teaching practice.
Burns 2005, p. 26
Assessment of Learning
Assessment of learning is the snapshot in time that lets the teacher, learners and their parents
know how well each learner has completed the learning tasks and activities. It provides
information about learner achievement. While it provides useful reporting information, it often
has little effect on learning.
Assessment as Learning
Assessment as learning is an approach that involves learners in self-assessment, reflection, and
goal-setting about their learning.
36
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
37
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
The formative assessment opportunities occur in three forms. They can be done through:
a) Observation —watching learners working (good for assessing skills, values and attitudes)
b) Conversation —asking questions and talking to learners (good for assessing knowledge
and understanding)
c) Product—appraising the learner’s work (writing, report, translation, calculation,
presentation, map, diagram, model, drawing, painting etc.). In this context, a “product” is
seen as something physical and permanent that the teacher can keep and look at, not
something that the learner says.
When all three opportunities of observation, conversation and obtaining a product are used,
the information from any one can be checked against the other two forms of assessment
opportunity (e.g., evidence from “observation” can be checked against evidence from
“conversation” and “product”). This is often referred to as “triangulation” as shown below.
Observation
Triangulation
Product Conversation
38
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
In the new agriculture teaching syllabus, the facilitators’ role is to make professional judgements
about learning by employing triangulation above. The professional judgement is about how far
are the learners meeting the learning outcomes that are set out in the syllabus.
To make these judgements the facilitator need to do the following:
i) Observation
Intentional and careful observation is fundamental to teaching, learning, and assessment. It
prompts us to question what we observe by asking what, why, how, where, when, and who.
Similarly, facilitators employ these questions while observing their learners, seeking answers
to better support and scaffold their development. In this approach you observe learners as
they solve problems, model skills to others (psychomotor), think aloud during a sequence of
activities. It also involves facilitators observing learners’ behaviour (affective) as they interact
with peers in different learning situations to provide insight into their values and attitudes.
This enable a facilitator to find out under what conditions success is most likely, what
individual learners do when they encounter difficulty, how interaction with others affects
their learning and concentration, and what learners need to learn the next idea or concept.
Observations may be informal or highly structured, and incidental or scheduled over
different periods of time in different learning contexts.
ii) Conversation
In the teaching and learning process, dynamic conversations between facilitators and
learners play a vital role in fostering deep understanding, critical thinking, and intellectual
curiosity. Facilitators engage learners through strategic questioning, posing challenging
inquiries that prompt deeper exploration, reflection, and analysis. These questions are
carefully crafted to scaffold learners' thinking, facilitating connections between new
information and prior knowledge, reinforcing existing concepts, and addressing
misconceptions. Through this iterative, dialogic process, learners not only enhance their
comprehension but also develop the skills to articulate their thoughts, reasoning, and
problem-solving strategies. As a result, learners are guided toward higher-order thinking,
nuanced understanding, and a more profound mastery of the concepts. Therefore, facilitators
are encouraged to ask questions and talk to learners as and when deemed fit.
iii) Product
In the context of teaching and learning, it is essential for facilitators to obtain tangible
products from learners who engage in each learning activity to ensure a thorough
understanding of the concept. These products—whether they are written reports,
presentations, project products and services, or creative works—serve as concrete evidence
of the learners' comprehension and application of the material. By producing a tangible
outcome, learners not only reinforce their knowledge but also demonstrate their ability to
synthesise and utilise what they have learned in a meaningful way. This process allows
facilitators to assess learners' progress, identify any areas of misunderstanding, and provide
targeted feedback to support continued growth and mastery.
39
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
The integrated character of scientific knowledge and how science is practiced is being
emphasised. For that reason, helping learners engage in scientific inquiry and develop science
inquiry skills in the context of learning science is one of the most important goals of science
education. Such demand has made assessment of scientific investigation skills to use rubrics
like this shown below.
40
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
41
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
Facilitators or teachers designing true PBL units must take conscious effort to incorporate all
the seven design elements of:
1) A driving question or challenging problem
This should be aligned and originating from the teaching standards or curriculum
concepts being taught.
4) Aligned to the teaching standards and learning outcomes; means ensuring that the
project is designed to meet specific learning outcomes in the curriculum.
5) Learner’s voice and choice; Learner's voice and choice in project-based learning (PBL)
empower learners by giving them a say in their learning journey.
This approach encourages learners to actively participate in using the driving question to
the plan, execute, and evaluate of their activities in the project-based learning task. Learners
will be given space to make choices in tasks or activities, methods of work, and the value
proposition for the product or service they want to work on. In that way learners can pursue
their interests and leverage their strengths, fostering a deeper engagement and ownership
of their learning. This autonomy not only enhances motivation and creativity but also
builds critical skills like decision-making, problem-solving, and self-management, preparing
learners for real-world challenges. Therefore, facilitators should create space for learner’s
voice and choice to thrive.
42
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
6) Critique and revision; which involves giving and receiving feedback on a project task
and activities. The goal is to provide constructive insights that can help improve access to
deeper learning, the project's experiences, and product quality. Critique can come from
teachers, peers, or experts in the field. The feedback should be specific, actionable, and
focused on how to improve the work rather than just pointing out what is wrong. While
revision is the process of making changes to a project processes and product based on
the feedback received during the critique phase. This iterative process helps learners
refine their work and achieve higher quality outcomes.
Generic skills have been built into the agriculture syllabus and are part of the different learning
outcomes. These skills manifest them as part and parcel of the ideas and concepts being taught
in a competency-based learning and knowledge integration framework.
For that reason, assessing generic skills will entail evaluating learners' proficiency in applying
these essential skills such as communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking,
mathematical computation and ICT proficiency within an authentic, real-world context. The
facilitators will do this by the help of an observation checklist and scoring rubric.
For that reason, attitudes and values have been built into the agriculture syllabus and are part
of the different learning outcomes. The aspects of learning attitudes and values, well known as
affective domain attributes, are inherently integrated into the teaching and learning process
within a competency-based learning and knowledge integration framework. Like the generic
skills above, they will be assessed using an observation checklist and scoring rubric.
43
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
44
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
d) Examinations
There will be only one school based summative assessment at the end of the year. There
will no longer be examinations or tests set at the beginning and end of every term. Instead,
there will be a summing up of on-going teacher assessments made in the context of
learning through activities of integration assessment. Learners will also be subjected to the
end of cycle assessment for certification. Details on the end of cycle assessment are
provided in the assessment guidelines document or the assessment framework.
e) Examination Authority
The Advanced Agriculture syllabus shall be examined by the established and relevant
examination bodies including Uganda National Examination Board.
Various assessment tools and strategies are employed to capture learners' demonstration of
abilities and achievements, including observation checklists, scientific investigation rubrics,
project-based learning rubrics, and end-of-topic/end-of-year scoring grids. These tools provide
a holistic picture of learners' strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
The collected data and evidence from these assessments are meticulously recorded and
maintained in learners' files, portfolios and anecdotal notes.
45
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
i) Checklists
Checklists are an efficient and practical way to collect information about a learner’s
development. Checklists are based on “assessors’ norms” as determined by development
theorists. With each age range and year, there are certain expectations and skills that a learner
should be able to achieve. For that reason, checklists are designed to track a learner’s skills in all
the developmental domains including physical, cognitive, language, social and emotional.
With a checklist, teachers and facilitators can easily see what a learner can do, as well as note
what areas of development need further support. Teachers and facilitators can create their own
checklists based on certain skill sets. Consequently, these checklists can be used to track a large
group of learners or an individual learner. Once the checklists are completed, they can be
analysed and stored for future reference.
ii) Portfolio
A portfolio is a thoughtful and intentional collection of a learner's outputs, projects, and
assessed tasks. It serves as a valuable tool for learners to track, document, and reflect on their
academic progress over time. Learners take ownership of their portfolio by selectively including
achievements that demonstrate their growth and accomplishments. While learners drive the
curation process, facilitators may provide guidance and recommendations on which pieces to
include, ensuring the portfolio accurately reflects the learner's step-by-step progress. Portfolios
can be created in various formats, either manually or digitally, depending on available resources.
46
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
Additionally, they include notes and observations from teachers regarding learners' progress,
behaviour, and areas of improvement. Finally, these stored records are essential tools for
teachers, administrators, and parents to monitor and support the learners' educational
development and academic journey
Annex 1: Scientific Inquiry Process During Investigation
i) The learner observes objects or phenomenon; observation is the first step in scientific
inquiry.
ii) The learner wonders or gets bothered/perturbed; curiosity drives the formulation of
questions.
iii) The learner formulates their own investigation questions; asking specific questions to
guide the investigation.
iv) The learner proposes a tentative answer; formulating an initial understanding or
possible answer.
v) Learner formulates a hypothesis; developing a testable hypothesis based on the
tentative answer.
vi) The learner identifies the variable in the investigation; identifying independent,
dependent, and control variables.
vii) The learner designs an experiment; planning the experiment to test the hypothesis.
viii) The learner gives a title to the experiment; providing a clear, concise title that reflects
the experiment's aim.
ix) The learner gathers the materials, tools and equipment; assembling necessary
materials and equipment.
x) The learner follows occupational health, safety and environmental protection
practices; ensuring safety and environmental care during the experiment.
xi) The learner formulates the steps to follow or procedure for investigation; writing a
detailed procedure for conducting the experiment.
xii) The learner describes how data or information will be gathered; planning methods for
data collection.
xiii) The learner creates format to capture the data or information; Designing formats like
tables or charts to record data.
xiv) The learner presents the data or information using statistical approaches: analysing
data using statistical methods.
xv) The learner interprets the data or information by relating the two variables; drawing
connections and interpreting the relationships between variables.
47
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
xvi) The learner extrapolates the results; extending findings to make broader
generalisations.
xvii) The learner draws conclusion about the relationships; summarising the relationships
observed in the data.
xviii) The learner formulates supports for their conclusion; providing evidence and
reasoning to back up conclusions.
xix) The learner relates the hypothesis to the conclusion; connecting the results back to the
original hypothesis.
xx) The learner identifies the difference between the plan and the execution of the
experiment; noting any deviations from the original plan.
xxi) The learner explains reason(s) for any difference or in absence of difference gives
suggestions to improve the investigation/experiment; discussing reasons for any
discrepancies and offering improvements.
xxii) The learner gives suggestions to extend the investigation; proposing further research
or additional questions for exploration.
xxiii) The learner draws conclusion related to the context; linking conclusions to the broader
context of the study.
xxiv) The learner cleans up all tools, equipment, and the working area then dispose of any
waste materials, especially if they are hazardous and return all materials and equipment
to their proper storage locations; ensuring a clean and safe working environment post-
experiment.
xxv) The learner communicates; sharing findings through reports, presentations, or
publications.
48
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
49
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
50
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
51
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
52
ADVANCED SECONDARY CURRICULUM
53
www.ncdc.go.ug
AGRICULTURE SYLLABUS
54
CONTACT US:
National Curriculum Development Centre
Plot M838, Kyambogo.
P.O.Box 7002 Kampala, Uganda
+256-393-112-088
www.ncdc.go.ug