Human beings require goods and services to satisfy increasing human wants. Great services lead to better customer loyalty, higher revenues and lower costs. Types and importance of goods and services found in the local market. Goods can be grouped into different types as follows. Free goods and economic goods. Free goods are goods that are naturally provided like sunshine, rain, oceans. Economic goods are commodities which have money value that can be used to satisfy human needs and wants. Producer goods and consumer goods. Producer goods are used in producing other goods. They include machines, equipment and tools. Consumer goods are final products that are bought and used by consumers. They include microwaves, fridges, t-shirts and candles. Perishable goods and durable goods. Perishable goods are goods that go bad easily unless stored using very special facilities. These goods include meat, milk and vegetable Durable goods are goods that are used for a long period of time for example radio, furniture or building among others. Public goods and private goods. Public goods are goods that are enjoyable by all citizens like roads, airports, rivers, public hospitals, public parks, railway or churches. Private goods are goods that are owned by individuals such as personal cars, private schools, private land among others. Distinguishing Characteristics between goods and services. GOODS SERVICES Goods are tangible Services are intangible. Goods can be separated from the seller. Services cannot be separated from the service provider. Goods can be stored for future use. Services cannot be stored for future use. Goods have a significant time gap between Services are purchased and consumed together. Production and consumption. Goods can be seen. In order to provide services, you need physical tools. Goods can be spoiled over time. Services are rendered directly by one person to another and they expire. Goods can be standardized. Quality of services can be standardized. Goods can be transported from one place to another. Services cannot be transported from one place to another. Factors of Production, Importance, Characteristics and Rewards for the factors of Production in the Community. Resources are used in production of goods and services. These resources are called factors of production. They payment for each factor of production is known as reward. There are four factors of production namely: Land. Capital. Labour. Entrepreneurship.


Capital. Labour. Entrepreneurship. Land It is defined as agricultural land, commercial real estate and natural resources such as oil, gas etc. Labour. It is made up of the individuals who are responsible for the development of goods and services. Capital goods. Such as tools, equipment and machinery are part of the capital category. Entrepreneurship. It includes visionaries and innovators who are behind the production process. Characteristics of Factors of Production. LAND. Land is limited. Therefore, it cannot be increased. Land is a natural resource. Productivity of land can be increased. Land production quality varies. Land cannot be moved from one place to another. LABOUR Labourers can move from one place to another. They have skills. Labour cannot be stored. Labour is a basic production factor. CAPITAL. It is a human-made resources. They reduce with time when used. They can be improved with technology. They can be moved from one place to another. ENTREPRENEURSHIP. They hire employees. They start and control the business. They pay for all other factors of production. They take all risks that cone with the business. Ethical and unethical practices in production of goods and services. Ethical practices: Transparency. Safety. Social and environmental responsibility. Fairness etc. Product quality. Unethical practices: Low quality of product-Poor quality products will lead to losing many customers. Low quantity of products -Giving consumers less products than what they paid for can lead to consumer concern. Overpricing -Putting higher prices to the commodities can lead to consumers concerns. Hoarding -In some occasions, outlet hide products to create a shortage so that prices can rise up. Therefore, affecting the price of goods and services. Safety of products. Consumers are concerned about the safety of the products that they buy. Outlets should ensure that goods and services that they produce are good for consumer use.


Safety of products. Consumers are concerned about the safety of the products that they buy. Outlets should ensure that goods and services that they produce are good for consumer use. Harmful ingredients-Ingredients used in production of goods and services should not be harmful to the consumers. STRAND 5- ENTREPRENEURSHIP. Meaning of entrepreneur, social entrepreneur and entrepreneurship. Entrepreneur -this is a person who identifies business opportunity and provides necessary resources to start and run the business. A social entrepreneur -this is an entrepreneur who pursues a project that has the potential to solve problems affecting people in a community. Entrepreneurship this is the process of identifying a business opportunity and providing the necessary resources to start and run the business with the aim of making a profit. Importance of entrepreneurship to an individual. Provides a career opportunity for the entrepreneur. Provides profit from the business activities leading to improved living standards. Creates a source of income for the entrepreneur. Importance of entrepreneurship to the community. It addresses the need of people by providing goods and services. Entrepreneurship results to creation of jobs and source of lively hoods for community members. Entrepreneurship leads to advancement in technology and better infrastructure through innovation. It leads to use or utilization of locally available resources hence creating revenue for the government. It contributes to taxes. It provides consumers with a variety of products leading to production of different products and improvement in quality of various products. Qualities of an entrepreneur in business. Risk taker-Have patience and dedication to work on an idea until it succeeds. Creative and innovative-they come up with ideas that are unique and can help solve problems. Have ability to make and follow a budget faithful. Curiosity-they keep looking for new business opportunities Are willing to adapt to changes to help sustain the business in the face of hardship and changing needs. Decisive-they make firm decisions in different situations and stand by them Focused-ensure their businesses remain successful in the long-term. 5.1-Introduction to Entrepreneurship. Sources and ways of generating idea of Business ideas for a business venture. A business idea is the thought that is in the mind of an entrepreneur concerning a potential business opportunity.


5.1-Introduction to Entrepreneurship. Sources and ways of generating idea of Business ideas for a business venture. A business idea is the thought that is in the mind of an entrepreneur concerning a potential business opportunity. Sources of business ides include the following: - Advertisements in media such as in newspapers, magazines, radios and television. The internet is a rich source of business ideas. One can get ideas from various internet sources such as blogs, websites and social media platforms. Hobbies- one can make money from what he or she does during their free time. Complaints- this is feedback given by unsatisfied customers. Attending exhibitions and trade fairs. Travelling it exposes a person to different ways of doing things. Family and friends they could suggest different business ideas, some of which are from their own experiences. Entrepreneurs observe the environment and identify the gaps that need to be addressed. Entrepreneurs pick ideas from personal experiences. Ways of generating business ideas. One can generate ideas for a business venture by: Consulting family and friends. Creating focus groups. Analysing quality of goods and services offered by other businesses. Talking with dissatisfied customers to know what they prefer. Building on professional training and skills. Evaluating a business opportunity to determine viability. Evaluating business opportunities refers to considering them against certain factors to determine if they are viable. A viable business opportunity is one that can be turned into a profitable business by an entrepreneur. An entrepreneur should evaluate strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities of the business opportunity. Factors that an entrepreneur should consider to determine business viability include the following: Right skills to run a particular business venture. Knowledge about a product and the market. Profitability of the product. Competition from other businesses. Resources available to the entrepreneur. Availability of relevant technology to support the business. 5.2Money. Factors that enhance business success in the community. The following are factors that entrepreneurs should consider to enhance success in business: Understanding the customer needs. Fair pricing of products. Maintaining good relations with the customers. Keeping proper business records. Observing government laws and regulations.


Maintaining good relations with the customers. Keeping proper business records. Observing government laws and regulations. Choosing the right products. Having a clear business plan. Money is anything which is generally accepted as a medium of exchange. What are the uses of Money? Money serves as a medium of exchange and people use money to pay for goods and services. Money serves as a store of value. You do not need to spend it immediately because it will still hold its value the next day or year. Money serves as a unit of account, which means that it is used to measure and record financial transactions or buying and selling of goods and services. Money serves as a means of transfer of immobile properties. One can sell or buy immovable properties such as land by use of money. Features characteristics of Money For anything to serve as money, it must have the following characteristics: Acceptability: The item must be acceptable to everyone. Durability: The material used to make money must be able to last long without getting torn, defaced or losing its shape or texture. Divisibility: Money should be easily divisible into smaller units denominations but still maintains it value. Cognizability: The material used to make money should be easily recognized. This helps reduce chances of forgery. It also helps people to differentiate between various denominations. Homogeneity: Money should be made using a similar material so as to appear identical. This eliminates any risk of confusion and forgeries. Portability: - Money should be easy to carry regardless of its value. Stability in value: The value of money should remain fairly stable over a given time period. Liquidity: - it should be easily convertible to other forms of wealth assets . Scarcity: - It should be limited in supply. If it is abundantly available its value will reduce. Not easy to forge- money should not be easy to imitate. The new generation of Kenyan currency is divided into nine 9 denominations as follows.


If it is abundantly available its value will reduce. Not easy to forge- money should not be easy to imitate. The new generation of Kenyan currency is divided into nine 9 denominations as follows. -. 1 shilling - 5 shillings - 10 shillings - 20 shillings - 50 shillings - 100 shillings - 200 shillings - 500 shillings - 1000 shillings There are several special characteristics security features that make each Kenyan note unique. Security features on each not is identified by feeling, looking and tilting. The table below helps to identify these characteristics or security features on every Kenyan currency note. The security features when you Feel Look Tilt 1. Feel the word KENYA. 2. Feel the value 50 . 3. Feel 1 bar The watermark of a perfect lion s head, the text CBK and the value of the note 50 . The security thread appears as a continuous line. The security thread changes colour from red to green. The 200, 500 and 1000 notes have additional rainbow colours on the thread. The golden band on the note shows the value of the bank note 50 1. Feel the word KENYA. 2. Feel the value 100 . The watermark of a perfect lion s head, the text CBK and the value of the note The security thread changes colour from red to green. The 200, 500 and 1000 notes have Key Security features in the Kenyan Currency. Denomination 50 notes 100 notes 200 notes 500 notes3. Feel 2 bars. 100 . The security thread appears as a continuous line. Additional rainbow colours on the thread. The golden band on the note shows the value of the bank note 100 1. Feel the word KENYA. 2. Feel the value 200 . 3. Feel 3 bars. The watermark of a perfect lion s head, the text CBK and the value of the note 200 . The security thread appears as a continuous line. The security thread changes colour from red to green. Has additional rainbow colours on the thread.


The security thread appears as a continuous line. The security thread changes colour from red to green. Has additional rainbow colours on the thread. The golden band on the back of the note shows the value of the bank note 200 1. Feel the word KENYA. The watermark of a perfect lion s head, The security thread changes colour from red to green. Pg. 46 Themes and Symbols on the Kenyan currency. 1000 notes 2. Feel the value 500 . 3. Feel 4 bars. The text CBK and the value of the note 500 . The security thread appears as a continuous line. Has additional rainbow colours on the thread. The golden band on the back of the note shows the value of the bank note 500 1. Feel the word KENYA. 2. Feel the value 1000 . 3. Feel 4 bars. The watermark of a perfect lion s head, the text CBK and the value of the note 1000 . The security thread appears as a continuous line. The security thread changes colour from red to green. Has additional rainbow colours on the thread. The golden band on the back of the note shows the value of the bank note 1000 Denomination Note image The animal presentedpg. 47 50-shilling note BUFFALO 100-shilling note LEOPARDpg. 48 200-shilling note RHINO 500-shilling note LIONELEPHANT pe. 49pg.


47 50-shilling note BUFFALO 100-shilling note LEOPARDpg. 48 200-shilling note RHINO 500-shilling note LIONELEPHANT pe. 49pg. 50 Theme-Green energy Kenya has a lot of resources and potential when it comes to producing sustainable energy. One of the Africa s largest wind farms is located at Loyangalani in Kenya. Kenya has become a global pioneer in green energy production because of geothermal electric generation at Olkaria. Kenya hopes to live in a cleaner world. Theme-Agriculture. Maize tea and livestock. Agriculture is a key driver of the economy and a source of income for the majority of Kenyans, Kenya is known for its tea, coffee, horticulture and other crops. Livestock rearing is also part of many Kenyans culture. Theme-social services. Medical services-education-athletics. Kenya s social structure is both diverse and distinctive. Since independence, our athletes have kept Kenya on the map across the world. The government has made great efforts to improve the health of its population, particularly young people. Our education system has generated some of the world s top academics Theme-tourism. Beach-Parks-Simba Kenya is in the center of the world s tourist map. The country attracts millions of tourists who come to enjoy the sand, sun and parks. The Maasai Mara is one of the world s most well know parks. It is also famous for the annual wildebeest migrations, which is considered one of the world s natural wonders. Kenya is famous for having lions, known as Simba. Governance. Themes found on Kenyan currencypg. 51 5.3 Financial goals.


It is also famous for the annual wildebeest migrations, which is considered one of the world s natural wonders. Kenya is famous for having lions, known as Simba. Governance. Themes found on Kenyan currencypg. 51 5.3 Financial goals. National assembly. The concept of governance is deeply rooted in the Kenyan culture. National assembly is at the top of the pyramid, reflecting the people s will and exercising their power. The Republic of Kenya s legislative authority comes from the people and is vested in and exercised by Parliament. It is a key component of the country s functional government. Meaning and importance of setting goals as used in financial management. Financial management this is the process involving how an individual or an organisation plans, controls and monitors usage of money for defined purposes. Goal setting in financial management - is the process of coming up with targets on how to earn, have and spend. Pg. 52 Financial goals are categorized into three groups: Short-term financial goals. Medium-term financial goals. Long-term financial goals. Short-term financial goal is one accomplished in one year or less. A medium-term financial goal can take between 2 to 5 years. A long-term financial goal is one that can take more than 5 years to accomplish. Importance of setting up goals. Helps one to set priorities and focus on them. Provides motivation to keep moving forward even when faced with unexpected challenges. It provides how much money to save. Enables a person to tract progress towards the goals over time enhancing accountability. Helps to determine the best tools and methods that would support the efforts to achieve them. Financial discipline-this is the practice of making informed decisions about earning, spending and saving money. Importance of financial discipline. Enables one to achieve financial goals. Reduces stress and anxiety by giving one control over his or her finances. Helps one to build wealth by saving and making right investment decisions. It gives one a good credit score when one is able to make timely payments on loans and bills. This helps to avoid interests and penalties for late payment. Factors to consider when setting up financial goals.


It gives one a good credit score when one is able to make timely payments on loans and bills. This helps to avoid interests and penalties for late payment. Factors to consider when setting up financial goals. Apply SMART goal setting approach to know if the gal is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Deciding what matters most-prioritise the needs and wants in order of importance. Know the period within which one wants to achieve the goals. Analyse obstacles or challenges that may be encountered. Monitor progress to make sure that you are meeting the targets. Searching for resources to search for information on setting up goals. You can find information on setting financial goals by using various sources such as: Visiting business sites on the internet. Reading business magazines and business news section in newspapers. Asking for information about setting personal goals from your parents. Talking to business people in your locality as resources persons. Formulating financial goals for individual development. Write a financial goal that is SMART. Create a timeline for the goal by defining whether is long-term, medium term or short- term. Determine how much money you need for the goal. Break it down into months or years. Write down what you need to do to help you achieve your goal. Implement and assess your financial goape.3.


JUNIOR SCHOOL2o24 GRADE 8 AGRICULTURE Oscar MwangiSOIL CONSERVATION: INTRODUCTION Soil provides the nutrients essential for plant growth, animal life, and millions of microorganisms. However, if soil becomes unhealthy, unstable, or polluted, the life cycle stops. Soil conservation refers to the protection and management of soil resources to prevent their degradation and promote sustainable land use practices. It is an important field of study and practice aimed at preserving the productivity, fertility, and health of soils for future generations. Soil is a vital natural resource that plays a crucial role in supporting plant growth, water filtration, carbon storage, and providing a habitat for various organisms. Threats to soil conservation The primary threats to soil conservation are Chemical contamination The use of pesticides can contaminate the soil, as well as nearby vegetation and water sources, with harmful chemicals. In addition to contamination, chemicals used on crops can be toxic to important beneficial insects, such as bees, as well as fish and bird populations. A Good example is the growing use of pesticides, herbicides and toxic fertilizers. Slash and burn Slash-and-burn farming is the practice of burning and clearing forests to make way for farmland. This method kills plant species and displaces wildlife from their natural habitats. Land cleared using slash and burn is only used while it s productive for farming. Once it loses its fertility, another patch of forest is identified for clearing. This unsustainable process repeats endlessly, preventing soil from recovering sufficiently to support healthy ecosystems. Land overuse, overgrazing, etc. Overuse of land can limit soil s ability to play its part in the global climate cycle. For example, overcutting forests and woodlands for timber and overgrazing pastures can far outpace the natural regrowth of vegetation, subjecting soil to increased exposure to erosionImportance of Soil Conservation Soil conservation is of paramount importance due to the following reasons: Preserving Agricultural Productivity: Healthy and fertile soil is essential for sustaining agricultural productivity. Soil conservation practices help prevent soil erosion, nutrient depletion, and degradation, ensuring that the land remains productive for farming. By conserving soil, we can maintain high yields, improve food security, and support sustainable agriculture. Protecting Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Soil is a crucial component of terrestrial ecosystems, supporting diverse plant and animal life. Soil conservation helps preserve natural habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, which are home to a variety of species.


By conserving soil, we can maintain high yields, improve food security, and support sustainable agriculture. Protecting Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Soil is a crucial component of terrestrial ecosystems, supporting diverse plant and animal life. Soil conservation helps preserve natural habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, which are home to a variety of species. By protecting soil, we maintain the balance of ecosystems and safeguard biodiversity. Water Quality and Quantity: Healthy soil acts as a natural filter, purifying water as it infiltrates through the soil layers. Soil conservation practices reduce runoff and erosion, preventing sediment and pollutants from reaching water bodies. By preserving soil, we maintain water quality, prevent contamination, and ensure the availability of clean water resources. Climate Change Mitigation: Soils play a significant role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. Healthy soils store organic carbon, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. By practising soil conservation, such as promoting organic matter content and reducing soil disturbance, we enhance carbon storage and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts. Mitigating Soil Erosion: Soil erosion is a natural process, but human activities can accelerate it to alarming levels. Erosion leads to the loss of topsoil, which contains essential nutrients for plant growth. Soil conservation practices, such as contour ploughing, terracing, and cover cropping, help control erosion and preserve valuable topsoil, ensuring long-term land productivity. Methods of Soil Conservation There are several effective methods and techniques for soil conservation. Here are some commonly used methods: Grassed waterways gr sometimes also called grass waterways are wide, shallow channels that are installed where water runoff usually concentrates in an agricultural field. They are planted with permanent vegetation, meaning they might be mowed, but the plants are never plowed or killed intentionally Stone lines are constructed along the contours to slow down the speed of runoff, reduce soil erosion, and enhance water infiltration. In addition, the stone barrier blocks and settles down the sediments transported from the upper slopes. Stone constructions are often used to rehabilitate eroded and abandoned land Trash lines are ideally 0.5m to 1.0m wide and 0.5m high. Advantages of using trash lines They conserve top soil by trapping or reducing the speed of run-off. When they compose they turn into manure and boost soil fertility.


Stone constructions are often used to rehabilitate eroded and abandoned land Trash lines are ideally 0.5m to 1.0m wide and 0.5m high. Advantages of using trash lines They conserve top soil by trapping or reducing the speed of run-off. When they compose they turn into manure and boost soil fertility. Trash lines increase soil water infiltration since they tend to hold the water longer Bund is an engineering measure of soil conservation, used for creating obstruction across the path of surface runoff to reduce the velocity of flowing water. It retains the running off water in the watershed and thus to helps to control soil erosion. Bunds are simply embankment like structures, constructed across the land slopeCrop rotation Instead of planting the same crop year after year on the same plot of land, crop rotation involves planning out growing seasons for different crops. This method of sustainable agricultureExternal link:open in new requires long-term planning, with crops changed every season. In addition to improving soil health and organic matter, crop rotationExternal link:open in new reduces the need for fertilizer and pesticides, lowering costs. It also helps prevent excess chemicals from entering water supplies, improving water quality. Contour Plowing: Plowing along the contour lines of the land helps to slow down water runoff, reduce erosion, and retain moisture in the soil. This technique involves creating furrows or ridges that follow the natural contours of the land. Terracing: Terracing is the construction of broad, level platforms on steep slopes. By creating terraces, water runoff is slowed down, allowing it to infiltrate the soil and reducing erosion. Terraces also help to retain moisture and provide flat areas for planting crops. Windbreaks: Windbreaks are rows of trees or shrubs planted along the edges of fields or across wind-exposed areas. They help to reduce wind speed, minimise wind erosion and protect the soil. Windbreaks also provide habitat for wildlife and contribute to biodiversity. Strip Cropping: Strip cropping involves planting different crops in alternating strips or bands across a field. This method helps to break up the flow of water and reduce erosion. The alternating strips of different crops also help to improve nutrient uptake and reduce pest and disease problems. Conservation Tillage: Conservation tillage practices involve reducing or eliminating the amount of soil disturbance during planting and cultivation. This includes techniques such as no-till, where seeds are planted directly into untilled soil, and reduced tillage, where minimal soil disturbance occurs.


Grey Water Recycling Grey water makes up roughly 60 of household waste water. This waste water is from baths, sinks, washing machines and dish washers. As the cheapest and simplest technique, capturing of the grey water is done in a bucket or drain, and used for the farm or garden. Contour Trenching Also known as the fanya juu technique, trench contouring entails digging of trenches along contour lines where water flows down the hill and soil thrown upslope to form an embankment which traps the run-off water and sediment, while still penetrating the soil below. Through this technique, though tedious in implementation and maintenance, crops can be grown in low rainfall seasons from the subsoil water reserve gathered. Example of Fanya juu technique Fog Harvesting Fog harvesting is best done at night and early mornings during the cold season in mountain faced regions or plains; e.g. Kajiado County and Coastal areas. Air is cooled to a point where it can no longer retain water vapour, hence forming ground level clouds. These clouds water droplets are captured in a synthetic plastic mesh net, that is hoisted with two posts planted in the ground which drain the water in a gutter; then transferred in tanks. This technique is easy to replicate, cheap and the level of technology and maintenance is simple. Groundwater Ponds Using an artificial pond laid a few meters below the ground, increases the chances of a better harvest of rain water runoff. This water can be used for irrigation and livestock drinking water. Compared to construction of a borehole, laying of a synthetic membrane on dug out grounds is cheaper, and traps the runoff water. These ponds vary in size depending on the size of the farm. They are easy to manage and are cost effective. Gutter Installation This roof catchment system has been used for decades as a traditional means of water harvesting technique. The water can be harvested in small scale or large scale for the purpose of irrigation, livestock, drinking or all of the fore mentioned. The size of the storage tank is dependent on the owners financial ability and water usage. With gutter installation, water runs down the strip iron sheets which are bent at an angle and nailed onto the roof, suspended with galvanized wires. The water is drained into a storage reservoir placed on the ground. SQUARE FOOT GARDENING Square foot gardening is the practice of dividing the growing area into small square sections, typically 1 foot 30 cm on a side, hence the name.


With gutter installation, water runs down the strip iron sheets which are bent at an angle and nailed onto the roof, suspended with galvanized wires. The water is drained into a storage reservoir placed on the ground. SQUARE FOOT GARDENING Square foot gardening is the practice of dividing the growing area into small square sections, typically 1 foot 30 cm on a side, hence the name. The aim is to assist the planning and creating of a small but intensively planted vegetable garden square allows you to get a high yield from a small area It's especially beneficial to gardeners who don't have much time or farm space. Square-foot gardening typically starts with a 4x4-foot raised garden bed filled with amended soil, then subdivided into 1-foot squares with markers like lattice strips. You then plant the appropriate number of plants in each square. You determine this by plant size. This method optimizes your space and reduces the effort needed to go from planting to harvest. Preparing square foot garden Follow this guide to square-foot gardening based on a grid of 1x1 foot squares and grow more vegetables than you can imagine with less work. Follow the steps below to start your square-foot garden. 1. Pick the Correct Location for Square-Foot Gardening As with most vegetable gardens, a square-foot garden must be where the ground is relatively flat and gets at least 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily. Avoid low areas that may turn into puddles after a hard rain. You may want to choose a spot near your house to make watering, weeding, harvesting, and other garden chores more convenient and harder to overlook. 2. Build a Raised Garden Bed The most common configuration for square-foot raised garden beds is 4x4 feet. At this size, most gardeners can reach the middle from any side. Plus, this size divides easily into a grid of sixteen 1x1-foot squares. Make your sides at least 6 inches deep. Growing root vegetables such as carrots call for sides that are 12 inches deep. To make a 6-inch-tall raised bed for square-foot gardening in a flash, buy four planter wall blocks which have 2-inch slots on four sides and four 4-foot-long 2x6s at your local home center. Set the blocks approximately 4 feet apart on level ground to form a square. Connect two blocks by sliding a 2x6 board into the respective 2-inch slots.


To make a 6-inch-tall raised bed for square-foot gardening in a flash, buy four planter wall blocks which have 2-inch slots on four sides and four 4-foot-long 2x6s at your local home center. Set the blocks approximately 4 feet apart on level ground to form a square. Connect two blocks by sliding a 2x6 board into the respective 2-inch slots. Repeat with the remaining boards and blocks to create a 4x4-foot frame in about 15 minutes. Use a more durable material such as pressuretreated lumber or cedar for a long-lasting frame. 3. Fill the Raised Garden Bed You've built the frame for a raised garden bed; now you need to fill it with soil. You may be wondering if you need special soil for square-foot gardening. You can use what you have as long as you amend it which is a good idea for any garden . First, loosen and aerate the ground soil. Then mix in enough compost and extra topsoil if needed to fill the frame. Work compost into the soil at the rate of one-third by volume such as a 2-inch layer of compost into 6 inches of soil . Soil Amendments Nutrients If you want to be more scientific about it, you should test your soil to determine its composition. Once you have that information, add the right amendments in the correct proportions to achieve the best-growing medium for a vegetable garden. Another option: Prepare the soilless mix advocated by Mel Bartholomew rather than amending your ground soil. Follow this formula: one-third compost, one-third peat moss, and one-third vermiculite. You'll need 8 cubic feet of it to fill a bed with 6-inch sides and 16 cubic feet to fill a bed with 12-inch sides. This mix is pricey, but it creates a weed-free bed that's high in nutrients and retains moisture. Blend the ingredients well whether you amend the existing soil or create a new soilless mix. Some gardeners use a portable concrete mixer plugged into a household outlet to get a uniform texture and distribution of particle sizes. No mixer? No problem. Blend all the ingredients on top of a tarp, then shovel the mixture into the frame. To get a speedier start on planting, skip the mixing and fill the frame with high-quality bagged garden soil from a nursery or gardening center.


No problem. Blend all the ingredients on top of a tarp, then shovel the mixture into the frame. To get a speedier start on planting, skip the mixing and fill the frame with high-quality bagged garden soil from a nursery or gardening center. Once the bed is filled and you've raked the soil or soilless mix smooth, create a square-foot garden grid using lattice strips, PVC pipes, or even string. Use nails or screws to attach the grid to the sides of the frame. Being able to see each square-foot section clearly simplifies planting. If you like, cover the prepared garden with a thin layer of fine mulch to conserve soil moisture and slow down the growth of weeds. 4. Plant Your Favorite Vegetables If you're building more than one raised square-foot garden bed, leave enough space between them to roll a wheelbarrow. The formula for planting is simple: one extra-large plant per 1x1-foot square; four large plants per square; nine medium plants per square; and 16 small plants per square. Here's an idea of what you can fit in each square: one vine tomato, pepper plant, sukumawiki or eggplant; four bush tomatoes, heads of cabbage, or heads of lettuce; nine onions or beets; or 16 radishes. Zucchini needs nine of the 16 squares for just one specimen, but you can plant other vegetables in the remaining seven squares. Vegetables or fruits that spread such as watermelons require a separate bed. Planting Seeds If planting seeds, plant one seed per hole spaced appropriately for the mature plant. Look on the back of the packet for instructions. Poke a finger through the mulch into the soil, drop in a small amount of vermiculite, then the seed, and cover it with more vermiculite a material that will help keep the seeds moist while it's sprouting . Mist the newly planted seeds daily, so the soil doesn't dry out. Once plants are established, water them approximately once a week. Transplanting Vegetables If you're transplanting vegetables from a nursery or gardening center, use the same spacing method mentioned earlier. Place plants in the dirt, leaving a shallow depression around each one to help hold water. You may want to shade newly planted vegetables to protect them from wilting. Water daily for a few days, and then remove the shade and water weekly. 5.


You may want to shade newly planted vegetables to protect them from wilting. Water daily for a few days, and then remove the shade and water weekly. 5. Maintain Your Garden Yes, square-foot gardening may take a little less work than traditional gardening, but you still have to pay attention to your produce. Watering Schedule You need to water when the soil feels dry, but you won't waste water on any exposed soil between traditional rows. Don't water from overhead. Instead, use a small container to water each plant individually pouring the water into the depressions you made when you planted them. Don't panic; it will still take less than 10 minutes to water a 4x4-foot garden this way. If your schedule permits, water in the morning. You'll need to water more often on days that are hot or windy because the soil will dry out faster. Weeding Your Garden Plan on weeding every week, but either pull weeds when they're small or use scissors to cut weeds off at the base instead of pulling them up by the roots or using a hoe. You don't want to disturb the roots of vegetables growing nearby. Make it easy on yourself by weeding every time you walk by the bed or only one square at a time. Because weedswon't compete with your vegetables for nutrients, you probably won't need to fertilize. Pest Control Inspect your garden daily to spot insect trouble early. Either hand-pick and destroy insects or spray the soft-bodied ones with insecticidal soap. Knock aphids off of plants by spraying them with a hose. CROP MANAGEMENT Crop pest A pest can be described as any organism capable of causing damage to crop plant. Types of Crop Pest. Important pests of crop plants are grouped into the following classes: i insect; ii birds; iii rodents; iv monkeys; v man; vi nematodesClassification of insect pests Insects pests can be classified into various groups based on their mode of feeding. These groups of insect pest include: 1. Biting and chewing insects; 2. Piercing and sucking insects; 3. Boring insects. 4. Biting and Chewing Insects: These insect mouth-parts which enable them to bite and chew plant Examples include: termites, grasshoppers, leaf worms, army worms, mantis, locust, beetles, etc. 5.


4. Biting and Chewing Insects: These insect mouth-parts which enable them to bite and chew plant Examples include: termites, grasshoppers, leaf worms, army worms, mantis, locust, beetles, etc. 5. Piercing and sucking insects: These insect pests possess strong mouthparts called proboscis stuck liquid from materials from plants tissues. Examples include aphids, cotton strainers, mealy bugs, scale insects, capsids or mirids, white flies, etc. 6. Burrowing insects: These insects including their larvae are capable of burrowing into plant parts and destroying the tissues of the plant or fruits or seeds. Examples include: bean beetles, stem burrowers, maize weevils and rice weevilsCrop pestsAphids ois Ogres ArT ForContig Pant Cut wormsCaterpillar Vegetables attacked by pests Kale Spinach... Tomatoes Onions ... Carrots ... etcEffects or economic importance of insect pests in crop production 1. Insects pest destroy crops in the field through their biting, chewing, boring, sucking and defoliation activities 2. They cause reduction in viability of stored produce 3. Spot of injuries by insets may predispose crops to disease attact. 4. They increase the cost of production during the course of controlling them 5. They render vegetables and fruits unattractive and unmarketable 6. Some are carriers or vectors of diseases. 7. The profits of farmers are reduced 8. They reduce the quality of produce either in the store or in the field 9. They generally reduce the yield of crops 10. They can also cause total death of crop plants. What you need to know about insects pests Not all insects are pests. Some bugs are beneficial to the garden. These good guys are known as beneficial insects, and they can greatly benefit your garden by consuming pest insects that would otherwise feast on your plants.


What you need to know about insects pests Not all insects are pests. Some bugs are beneficial to the garden. These good guys are known as beneficial insects, and they can greatly benefit your garden by consuming pest insects that would otherwise feast on your plants. Examples Of Beneficial Insects Include: Playing mantises Robber flies Hoverflies Assassin bugs Ground beetles Ladybugs Green lacewings Spiders Soldier beetles How to Control Pests in Crops Pests can be controlled by implementing: Chemical control; Cultural control, including crop rotation, use of locally adapted and or pest-resistant or -tolerant varieties, sanitation, and the manipulation of planting and harvest dates to avoid pests; Biological control by using natural enemies of pests; Mechanical control through cultivation practices or pest trapping; Biotechnology. .. Cultural Control: By cultural control, it is meant those methods of planting, growing and harvesting a crop which will prevent or lessen insect damage. This method consists of a slight departure from the usual time of planting, sowing or harvesting the crops or changing the plan of crop rotation, weed control, disposal of the crop remnants after harvest. Planting good seeds and resistant varieties are very important in controlling some insect pests. Since cultural methods are usually economical, they are especially useful against pests of low unit-value crops. Practices which reduce the chances of buildup of pest populations may hold them below the level which will cause economic damage. Such methods are particularly applicable to field crops and forests. Knowledge of the life history or bionomics of a pest species is essential to the effective use of cultural control methods. The principle of the weakest link or most vulnerable part of the life cycle usually applies. The environment is changed by altering farming practices at the correct time so as to kill the pests or to slow down their multiplication. In this way, the method is aimed more at prevention than at cure. If the environment is unfavorable, the pest may not reach a population level which will cause serious damage. Cultural controls are often used when chemical or biological methods have not yet been devised for an injurious species. Cleanup of the sources of infestation and changes in the planting or harvesting time are particularly important when no effective method of killing the pest is known. However, these methods are also used in combination with other controls: 1.


Cultural controls are often used when chemical or biological methods have not yet been devised for an injurious species. Cleanup of the sources of infestation and changes in the planting or harvesting time are particularly important when no effective method of killing the pest is known. However, these methods are also used in combination with other controls: 1. Control by Planting Pest Resistant Varieties: Seeds of healthy plants preferably of a resistant variety only should be sown as far as possible. Certain varieties are naturally resistant or less susceptible to insect attack e.g. certain varieties of wild apples are immune to aphid attacks while most of the cultivated varieties are very susceptible. Hence, by interbreeding wild with cultivated variety, a strain can be evolved which yield good fruits and shall also will be immune to pests. 2. Tolerance to Insect Infestation: A variety may be infected by insects yet survive and show less injury than others because of its ability to replace injured parts such as leaves and rootlets. 3. Ploughing in Relation to Insect Control:The plough if used at right time is a good tool for combating many insect pests; it disturbs or kills them, eradicates weeds upon which they might feed and breed, exposes them to natural enemies or to weather control and buries them so deeply that few adults can emerge. A thorough stirring of the soil before planting is an indirect method for controlling the corn root aphids, because, it breaks up ant colonies, kills many aphids and prevents the growth of weeds on which they live until corn roots are available. 4. Clean Cultivation: Clean cultivation means the removal of weeds, plant residues, and other materials from the fields and growing only healthy crops. The destruction of crop residues is a very good preventive measure for controlling certain species of insects e.g. caterpillars or beetles. The elimination of remaining effectively stops further insect breeding by cutting of their food supply and shelter. Many insects infesting crops will develop on weeds which may or may not be related to these crops botanically. Hence, weed control is a good practice for reducing insect infestation. Damage due to Leptocorisa is very serious when paddy fields are surrounded by weeds which provide a good shelter to the pests till the ears have been formed in them.


Many insects infesting crops will develop on weeds which may or may not be related to these crops botanically. Hence, weed control is a good practice for reducing insect infestation. Damage due to Leptocorisa is very serious when paddy fields are surrounded by weeds which provide a good shelter to the pests till the ears have been formed in them. Similarly various species of red hairy caterpillar, Amsacta moorei, Amsacta collaris and other species of this insect are polyphagous and lay eggs on a number of weeds and on emergence the caterpillars feed on the weeds and then migrate to the nearby fields of any crop. 5. Crop Rotation: Crop rotation is effective as preventive measures against insects that feed on relatively few plant species or where the insects are incapable of long distance migration but crop rotation is useless against a general feeder. If one and the same crop is grown every year the insect population is bound to increase due to abundance of food material. On the contrary, if crops are grown in rotation or alternate years e.g. a crop of one plant family followed by that of different family e.g. barley grown in spring may be followed by legumes or pulses and then wheat in winter and so on. The crops of the same family e.g. cotton, and lady s finger okra belonging to the same family Malvaceae must not follow same year. Mixed crops are sometimes useful as pests do not thrive in large number. 6. Flooding or Irrigation: Where water is available, it is sometime possible to destroy insects by flood or irrigation of the field. Flooding rice fields destroys many sugarcane borers. Similarly other burrowing insects e.g. crickets, grasshoppers, beetles and bugs come out of the ground after flooding the fields. They either die their natural death or readily picked up by birds. Ploughing followed by heavy irrigation within 30 days destroys many pink boll worms. The sugarcane and wheat crops can be saved from the attack of termites by irrigation. 7. Fertilizing: Nitrogenous fertilizers in some soils tend to increase the susceptibility of sorghum to damage by attack of some insects. As a result of proper manuring the plant growth is stimulated. The healthy and vigorous plants can easily resist the attack to which the weaklings would have surrendered. 8. Pruning and Thinning: Some pests are normally carried from old crop to the new one.


The healthy and vigorous plants can easily resist the attack to which the weaklings would have surrendered. 8. Pruning and Thinning: Some pests are normally carried from old crop to the new one. Pruning and thinning decrease the intensity of attack. Infested plant shoots and dead hearts must be immediately removed. Ratooning should be avoided and there should be plenty of intervals between harvesting a crop and sowing a new one. 9. Time of Planting and Harvesting: Time of planting and harvesting has great influence on insect infestation e.g. early maturing cotton is not attacked by pink boll worm in areas where moth do not emerge early. Late planted wheat escapes oviposition by hessian flies in America because the plants do not emerge until most of the flies have disappeared as they are very short lived. Similarly early sowing of rice in the Punjab between the 3rd week of May and mid-June is helpful in protecting it from the attack of rice borer, Tryporyza incertulas so the time should be so regulated that the crop may not be worth the attack at the active period of the pests. 10. Closed Season:An insect species limited in its feeding to one crop may be eradicated by not growing this crop for a year or two. This has been done with success in isolated areas for eradicating the pink boll worm. Such a closed season consists in not growing cotton for a period of several months. 11. Destruction of Volunteer Crops: Volunteer crops are those which grow from self-sown seeds, and stubble crops are those which sprout from roots or stubbles stumps , may be a source of insect infestation and they should be destroyed by ploughing or other means. 12. Trap Crop: A trap crop is a small planting often only a few rows, made somewhat earlier than the main planting for the purpose of diverting insects away from the main crop. The trap crop can either be harvested early or cut and used as fodder before a generation of the insect can be completed. Otherwise it will serve as a breeding ground for the pest which will then attack the main crop in large numbers. The plant species used for trap crop should be one that is very attractive to the insect. The preferred host plants can also be grown around the main crop and when the pest has appeared it can be cut and destroyed.


Otherwise it will serve as a breeding ground for the pest which will then attack the main crop in large numbers. The plant species used for trap crop should be one that is very attractive to the insect. The preferred host plants can also be grown around the main crop and when the pest has appeared it can be cut and destroyed. The other methods of cultural control are early cutting of crop, rate and depth of planting, sowing, separation of complimentary host plants, pasturing the heavy infected crops and drying out the soil etc. Physical and Mechanical Control: The protection of crops and foods from insect attack by physical and mechanical means is the simplest and most effective method. Such measures consist of destruction of insects by mechanical means, burning, trapping, protective screens or barriers, use of high or low temperature, soaking in water and drying. 1. Hand Picking: When only a few plants are infected, certain large conspicuous species may be removed from the plants by hand and destroyed just by pressing the abdomen or dipping them in kerosenized water. 2. Mechanical Means: A rotary blow has been found to destroy over 96 of white grubs as well as cut worms, army worms and other caterpillars. The cutting wheel is thirty two inches in diameter and fourteen inches wide and carries sixteen steel blades. It operates by power take off from a tractor at 150 rpm. 3. Trapping: The insects may be turned into a tray by light and baits or the trap may be mobile and drawn across a field. 4. Light Traps: The attraction of nocturnal insects to light is a common observation and the light traps have been invented and tested for killing crop pests. The attractiveness of an artificial light depends upon its candle power and colour. A yellow light will attract 60 fewer insects than a white light of the same candle power and brightness. The insects attracted by light may be destroyed as they hit electric grid or they may be drowned in water and oil after they have been turned into the trap. 5. Bait Traps: Baits are a form of control whereby insects are attracted to a selected spot on which they can be easily removed. Bait traps have been found to be very effective in controlling the nocturnal insects like cockroaches, crickets, caterpillars and nocturnal moths. 6. Temperature Treatments: a Low Temperature Control: Low temperature extremes are fatal to insects of stored grains.


Bait traps have been found to be very effective in controlling the nocturnal insects like cockroaches, crickets, caterpillars and nocturnal moths. 6. Temperature Treatments: a Low Temperature Control: Low temperature extremes are fatal to insects of stored grains. Usually a temperature of 28 C or lower for at least several hours will kill most of the insects. Tribolium confusum can be killed in 24 h when exposed to subzero temperatures. Low temperatures are utilized for the control of insects in mills, warehouses and similar establishments. B High Temperature Control: High temperatures are also fatal to other species and can be used to kill them. Heating cotton seeds to a temperature of 65.5 C for 30 seconds will kill all pink boll worms in the seeds. Temperature of 48.8-51.6 C in all plants of a flour mill for 10-12 h will kill all insects exposed to such temperature. Exposing the infested grains to the sun also kill all the adults of the stored grain insects. 7. Physical Barriers: The protection of crops from insects by barrier is possible in case of crawling and migratory insects. Treated paper barriers and dust barriers are also used. Trenches are also used to stop army worms. Similarly water channels can be used for checking the migration of crawling insects. 8. Burning: Although destroying insects by burning their shelters is sometime practicable, burning pastures and woodland to destroy insects should not be recommended. It has been found that such practices reduce soil fertility and increases soil erosion. Furthermore, it fails to destroy injurious species but does eradicate many beneficial forms. Both cutting away dead hearts and burning them in time save valuable crops from destruction. Burning the field refuse and stubbles, are the other useful ways of pest control. 9. Sieving and Winnowing: It is possible only for domestic purposes. 10. Flooding: It is well known that a large number of insects breed and dwell in the soil, which may be destroyed by flooding the fields with water. There are several other simple methods through which a number of pest infestation can be controlled but the mechanical method of insect pest control involves a lot of labour like shaking the trees and killing the insects either in the larval or adult stages. Biological Control: The term biological control means control of insects by several biological agencies such as parasites, predators and pathogens.


Flooding: It is well known that a large number of insects breed and dwell in the soil, which may be destroyed by flooding the fields with water. There are several other simple methods through which a number of pest infestation can be controlled but the mechanical method of insect pest control involves a lot of labour like shaking the trees and killing the insects either in the larval or adult stages. Biological Control: The term biological control means control of insects by several biological agencies such as parasites, predators and pathogens. The introduction of sterile males in a normal population and use of sex attractants have been reported to bring about effective biological control. The theoretical basis of the biological control defends on the existence of a natural enemy. The effective natural enemy can be deduced to have the following characteristics: i High searching ability, ii High degree of host specificity or preference, iii Good reproductive capacity relative to the host iv Good adaptation to a wide range of environmental conditions. The most essential characteristic is high searching ability. It should be borne in mind that a really effective enemy may be scarce in its native home because it regulates the host population at low level. There usually is one best enemy for each species in a given habitat and one frequently is sufficient for complete biological control, often, however, a second or third enemy species may add to host population regulation and may in fact be necessary to achieve satisfactory biological control. The best enemy species may differ for different host habitats. Hence there is generally no single best natural enemy extending throughout the range of a pest species. With these qualities the introduced natural enemy by itself or in conjunction with other mortality factors is expected to prevent outbreak of the pest species or at least to drop down major population fluctuations. The essential principle of biological control is to maintain a state of biological equilibrium of a living organism. This biological equilibrium is normally maintained by a set of forces called environmental resistance. Often the biological equilibrium of a living organism is disturbed either due to environmental or biotic factors and consequently a particular organism multiplies and spreads in a unlimited manner so as to assume the status of a pest. The inherent ability of an organism to survive and to reproduce within a given time and under optimal environmental conditions is known as biotic potential. Biotic potential is a force opposed to environmental resistance. It takes into account the number of young produced per female in each reproduction, the number of reproduction in a given time and the sex ratio of the species.


The inherent ability of an organism to survive and to reproduce within a given time and under optimal environmental conditions is known as biotic potential. Biotic potential is a force opposed to environmental resistance. It takes into account the number of young produced per female in each reproduction, the number of reproduction in a given time and the sex ratio of the species. Advantages of Biological Control: Only a limited number of introduced pests have been successfully exterminated with chemicals. It would seem wiser in many instances to attempt a biological control programme which might reduce pest populations below the level which causes economic damage. Biological control has the tremendous advantage that, if successful, it becomes self-sustaining and integrated into the normal environment of the control area. If pest populations are reduced to the point where economic damage is negligible, the control programme is a success. Biological controls tend to be particularly useful on low unit-value crops where complete control may not be required or where chemicals are not recommended. Pests of field and forage crops, forests, and range may be economically controlled by biological methods; chemical controls against such pests may be impractical. A biological control destined to be fully effective will be easily and quickly established. If an imported parasite or predator is not established within three years of careful releases under good conditions for its development, the programme may be justifiably discontinued. Types of Biological Control: There are 4 main types of biological control viz.:. I Introduction of parasites, ii Predators, iii Pathogenic organisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi etc. And iv Removal of fertile males and creating sterility in males by gamma radiation and introducing these sterile males in a normal population. In addition to these 4 main types, there is a fifth type of biological control where the indigenous parasite of the locality is being utilized for this purpose. 1. Parasites: Parasitic insects develop as larvae on or in a single host individual from eggs generally laid on, in or near the host and usually consume all or most of the host body, killing the host and then pupate, either within or outside the host. The free living adult parasite emerges from the pupa and starts the next generation a new by actively searching for host in which to oviposit. They tend to attack only one host stage i.e. eggs, larvae, or pupae, although there is also some overlapping in certain cases, adult insects do not serve as hosts.


The free living adult parasite emerges from the pupa and starts the next generation a new by actively searching for host in which to oviposit. They tend to attack only one host stage i.e. eggs, larvae, or pupae, although there is also some overlapping in certain cases, adult insects do not serve as hosts. Very often life cycles are commonly short, ranging from 10 days to 2 weeks or so in mid-summer but correspondingly longer in cold weather. In general, they all have great potential rates of increase. According to the species one or more parasitic larvae may characteristically develop per host individual, thus we have either solitary or gregarious parasitism. Sometimes two different species of larvae develop from eggs laid in the same host. This is multiple parasitism. There is also ectoparasitism and endoparasitism, depending upon whether the larva develops externally or internally. The major groups occur in two orders of insects viz. Hymenoptera and Diptera. 2. Predators: Predator insects differ from parasitic ones in that the larvae or nymphs, as the case may be, require several to many prey individuals to attain maturity. The adults generally deposit their eggs near the prey population and after hatching the active mobile immature search out and consume prey individuals. This need of larvae or nymphs to search is an important distinction from parasitic forms whose larvae develop on a single host individual and thus have the advantage of not having to discover additional hosts. Adults of many species are also predatory. There may be one or several generations to one of the prey. Larvae and nymphs as well as corresponding adults may be predaceous or only one stage may exhibit the habit. 3. Pathogens: Pathogenic microorganisms attack insects and have life cycles more or less characteristic or similar microorganisms developing in other groups of animals. Insects are probably subject to as wide as variety of disease as are the vertebrates. Except for the fungi, disease organisms gain entry in the host via mouth or the digestive tract, i.e. the insect host must eat plant or other food contaminated with pathogen. In case of fungi, entrance is gained through the insect integument and free water or very high humidity is generally required. Thus, fungi tend to be restricted to moist environments.


The insect host must eat plant or other food contaminated with pathogen. In case of fungi, entrance is gained through the insect integument and free water or very high humidity is generally required. Thus, fungi tend to be restricted to moist environments. However, fungi do have advantage of attacking sucking insects which because of the nature of their feeding on sap, tend to be fairly free of disease caused by microorganisms because they rarely ingest them. Virtually no insect disease organisms occur in mammals and none have been recorded from man. Thus they are safe to use in biological control even in large scale microbial spraying operations. 4. Genetic Methods: Genetic pest control implies the manipulation and use of genetic material in a manner injurious to pest insects. The control of insect pest populations by the release of sterile males has been demonstrated with at least five insect species. This spectacular technique has been termed autocidal control and involves using an insect species to bring about its own self-destruction. It is accomplished by irradiating laboratory reared males of the species to an extent sufficient to disrupt the genetic function of the sperm nucleus but not appreciably interfere with the normal ability of the male to mate or of the sperm to penetrate the egg of the female. However, such fertilized eggs fail to develop so a wild female mated with a sterilized male produces no progeny. If sterile males are released in large enough number in relation to the wild population they will fertilize more females than will the wild males. The advantage is cumulative in each generation hence eradication may be achieved within a few generations under ideal conditions. The boll weevil is reported to have been eradicated from a small isolated field by the release of chemically sterilized males. Chemosterilants have been under intensive investigation but are not as yet practical. They offer the advantage of treating the wild population directly and thus avoiding the mass rearing necessary with gamma radiation. Use of Pheromones: The ability of an insect to locate a mate and to copulate once it has been found is often directed by natural specific chemicals produced by the insect called pheromones. Natural chemical attractants and mating stimulants have been shown to occur in many pest insects. They are often effective in incredibly small concentrations; one caged virgin female of the introduced pine sawfly attracted over 11000 males. Some have been chemically identified and even synthesized. Its high specificity for particular target insects however makes this approach highly desirable.


They are often effective in incredibly small concentrations; one caged virgin female of the introduced pine sawfly attracted over 11000 males. Some have been chemically identified and even synthesized. Its high specificity for particular target insects however makes this approach highly desirable. Such phenomena gave rise to the intriguing idea of using these natural or artificial pheromones to attract and trap insects, to lure them to contact poisons, chemosterilants or pathogens and to mask the location of females by saturating the environment with synthetic sex pheromones. Such techniques could offer highly specific control methods with little or no ecological side effects. It appears that adequate control from pheromones or attractants probably can only result if they are so highly effective as to be able to reduce the pest population to low level in the treated area and are used over a large area so that immigration of the pest from the outside would not negate the effort. Pheromone traps are commonly used for controlling various moths Heliothis, Spodoptera, Leucinodes etc. Chemical Control: Recent discoveries of new synthetic insecticides have sparked exciting advances and major breakthroughs in the control of insect enemies. Chemicals have subdued pests that once caused wide spread crop destruction, death of domestic animals and epidemics of insect borne human diseases. The modern insecticides are both effective and reliable. The whole world is resorting to them more and more for the solution of many insect problems. The chemicals which kill the insects by their chemical action are termed as insecticides. They are used for the protection of men, domestic animals, crops, agricultural products from the attack of insects when other methods fail to control the pests. Insecticides are seldom used in full strength but are formulated in a variety of ways to make them easier for application. Formulations of Insecticides: Following are the common formulations of insecticides viz.:. 1 Dusts, 2 Granular formulations, 3 Insecticide-fertilizer mixtures, 4 Wettable powders, 5 Solutions, 6 Emulsifiable concentrates, 7 Aerosoles, 8 Fumigants and 9 Miscellaneous formulations. Whatever may be the formulations the poisonous chemical present in an insecticide must penetrate the vital organs and tissues of the insect and ultimately kill it.


Insecticides are seldom used in full strength but are formulated in a variety of ways to make them easier for application. Formulations of Insecticides: Following are the common formulations of insecticides viz.:. 1 Dusts, 2 Granular formulations, 3 Insecticide-fertilizer mixtures, 4 Wettable powders, 5 Solutions, 6 Emulsifiable concentrates, 7 Aerosoles, 8 Fumigants and 9 Miscellaneous formulations. Whatever may be the formulations the poisonous chemical present in an insecticide must penetrate the vital organs and tissues of the insect and ultimately kill it. 1 Dusts: Insecticidal dusts are those powders which are used dry and mixed with or impregnated with certain organic materials or pulverised minerals powders such as talc, pyrophyllite, bentonite etc. These minerals are called carriers or vehicles since they carry the insecticide. Dusts are blown to deposit on plants by dusting machinery or blowers. Ground to a fine size, most dust will pass through a 325 mesh screen and range in size from 1 to 40 . The finished dust may be 0.1 to 25 active material. In dust form, in general, the toxicity of an insecticide increases as the particle size decreases. 2 Granular Formulations: These are similar to dusts except for larger particle size. The range of particle size in a granular product is designated by a two figures mesh classification e.g. 30 60 means that virtually all the insecticide granules will pass through a standard 30-mesh sieve while a negligible quantity will pass through a standard 60 mesh sieve. Some of the common granular formulations are 16 30, 20 40, 24 48 and 30 60. Granular insecticides are generally used as dressings on or in the soil and may be applied with fertilizer spreaders or special granule applicators. 3 Insecticide Fertilizer Mixtures: Insecticide fertilizer mixtures may be formulated by adding granular insecticides to commercial fertilizers or by spraying insecticides directly on to the fertilizer. Such mixtures are applied at the regular fertilizing time to provide both plant nutrients and control of soil insects.


Granular insecticides are generally used as dressings on or in the soil and may be applied with fertilizer spreaders or special granule applicators. 3 Insecticide Fertilizer Mixtures: Insecticide fertilizer mixtures may be formulated by adding granular insecticides to commercial fertilizers or by spraying insecticides directly on to the fertilizer. Such mixtures are applied at the regular fertilizing time to provide both plant nutrients and control of soil insects. 4 Wettable Powders: These are similar to dusts but they are meant to be diluted and suspended in water and used as spray. To make an insecticidal dust act in this manner a dispersing and wetting agent is added to the formulation. They are more concentrated than dust as they may contain as high as 75 toxicant. 5 Solutions:Many of the modern synthetic insecticides are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. These soluble insecticides in solution form are used directly for insect control. They are however seldom used on plants because of their phytotoxic reaction. 6 Emulsifiable Concentrates: The most common and versatile formulation is the emulsifiable concentrate. This formulation consists of an insecticide, a solvent for the insecticide and an emulsifying agent. Mixing the concentrate with water forms an emulsion. The solvent used may evaporate quickly after spraying leaving a deposit of toxicant after the water has evaporated. The use of an emulsifying agent serves several purposes; it makes possible the diluting of a water insoluble chemical with water, it reduces the surface tension of the spray thus allowing it to spread and wet the treated surface more effectively, helps the spray and make a better contact with the insect cuticle. Generally oil soluble emulsifying substance is used. Normally emulsions are unstable and break up into their component parts. This action is termed breaking. For spraying on plants a quick breaking mixture is preferred. Since this results in heavier deposits of toxicant. 7 Insecticidal Aerosols: Aerosols are minute particles suspended in air or fog or smoke. The diameter of these particles range from 0.1 to 50 . The dispersion of insecticide into aerosol form may be accomplished by burning, vapourising with heat, atomizing mechanically or releasing through a small hole an insecticide that has been dissolved in a liquified gas. The last method of aerosol preparation gives the popular aerosol bomb.


The diameter of these particles range from 0.1 to 50 . The dispersion of insecticide into aerosol form may be accomplished by burning, vapourising with heat, atomizing mechanically or releasing through a small hole an insecticide that has been dissolved in a liquified gas. The last method of aerosol preparation gives the popular aerosol bomb. 8 Fumigants:Insecticides used in the gaseous form are known as fumigants. Fumigants are most often formulated as liquids under pressure and are held in tanks. When the liquid is released in open air it changes back to a gas, quite often fumigants are a mixture of two or more gases. 9 Miscellaneous Formulations: There are certain insecticides which are special formulations meant for specific uses. Often insecticides are stuffed in large pills and capsules and introduced into the stomach of animal. Insecticides may be mixed in shampoos, intended for use on house pets waxes for use on floors may contain an insecticide. Poison baits consist of toxicants combined with food stuff attractive to the insect pests. All these types of insecticides are special formulations designed for special purposes. Synergists: Some chemicals have the property of greatly increasing toxicity of certain insecticides. When the increased toxicity is markedly greater than the sum of the two used separately, it is termed a synergistic action. Most synergists have been used with pyrethrum or allethrin etc. Synergistic action is important because it provides a means for a more effective insecticide and it reduces the cost of control. Legal Control: Legal control is the lawful regulation of areas to eradicate, prevent or control infestation or reduce the damage caused by insects. This mainly involves the use of quarantines and pest control procedures. The central and state officials often work with local community or districts as in mosquito or locust control projects. Crop Harvesting: Harvesting: Have you ever wondered how we get food grains supplied neat and cleaned directly to the shop? Yes, farmers are using traditional and modern techniques for harvesting the crops grown. There are various stages to harvesting a variety of crops when the particular crop attains its maturity. Harvesting the crops at matured levels gives high income, and good quality produces. If the crops such as pulses, cereals, oilseeds, etc.,. Are left in the field for too long after maturity without harvesting, it can lead to the predisposition of pests.


Maturity indices are a set of indicators that tell us when our crops have reached their optimal stage for harvest, based on various factors like size, color, texture, or taste. Here are some maturity indices for vegetables that are commonly sold in the local markets. These indices can serve as a guide for growers and consumers in determining the ideal time to harvest and purchase these crops for optimal flavor and quality. Tomato For local markets in the Philippines, tomatoes are typically harvested when they have reached the breaker stage, which is when the fruit has just started to changecolor from green to red. This is because the market demand for tomatoes is usually for ripe, red tomatoes that are ready for immediate consumption. It is important for growers to keep in mind that tomatoes that are picked too early will not ripen properly and may not have the desired flavor or texture. On the other hand, overripe tomatoes may be too soft and have a shorter shelf life. Eggplant Eggplants should be harvested at the right stage of maturity to ensure good quality and yield. Commercial maturity for eggplant is generally reached when the fruit has reached its full size and firmness, and has developed a glossy, smooth skin with a uniform color. The fruit should have a dark purple or black color, be firm to the touch, and have a slight give when gently squeezed. The calyx, or stem, should be green and firmly attached to the fruit. It is important to note that overly matured eggplants may have a bitter taste. Squash When the squash is ripe, its color becomes dull or matte, and it loses its sheen. Another indication is the hardness of the skin. When the skin of the squash becomes hard and difficult to puncture, it is a sign that it is mature and ready for harvest. Additionally, the tendril near the stem of the squash plant starts to dry out and turn brown when the squash is mature. The leaves of the plant may also start to wilt or yellow when the squash is ready to be harvested. Onion Onions are ready for harvest when their leaves start to turn yellow and fall over. This is an indication that the plant has stopped growing and the bulbs have reached their full size. The outer skin of the onion bulb should also be dry and papery. Once the leaves have fallen over and the skin is dry, the onion bulbs can be pulled from the ground and left to dry for a few days in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.


This is an indication that the plant has stopped growing and the bulbs have reached their full size. The outer skin of the onion bulb should also be dry and papery. Once the leaves have fallen over and the skin is dry, the onion bulbs can be pulled from the ground and left to dry for a few days in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. After drying, the onions can be cleaned, trimmed, and stored. Garlic The timing of garlic harvest is determined by the maturity of the bulbs, which is indicated by the drying and browning of the leaves. When approximately one-half of the leaves have turned yellow or brown and have begun to dry out, it is time to harvest the garlic bulbs. Bitter gourd Bitter gourds are harvested when they have reached a length of 4-6 inches and a diameter of about one inch. The color should also be dark green, which indicates that it is still young and tender. The seeds inside the bitter gourd should be small and white, which indicates that the vegetable is still young and has not yet matured. Cucumber Cucumbers are typically harvested when they are young and tender for best flavor and texture. Cucumbers intended for the local market are usually harvested when they are still green, although some varieties may have a slightly yellow or white coloration. Over-ripe cucumbers will turn yellow or orange and are no longer suitable for the market. Cucumbers intended for fresh consumption should have a crisp texture and a slightly sweet, mild flavor. Overly matured cucumbers may have a bitter or unpleasant taste. It is important for growers and consumers to know the maturity indices of vegetables because it helps ensure that the vegetables are harvested at the optimal time for consumption or processing. For growers, knowledge of maturity indices can help them plan their planting and harvesting schedule, as well as manage their resources more efficiently. For consumers, knowing the maturity indices can help them choose the freshest and most nutritious vegetables, as well as get the best value for their moneyMethods of Harvesting There are three essential methods of cutting the crop or harvesting. 1. Hand Harvesting Manual Harvesting: Hand harvesting is a method of gathering grains, fruits, vegetables, leaves, etc.,. By hand or manually. Fig: Hand Harvesting 2. Harvesting with Hand Tools: Farmers use a few tools to harvest the crops.


Cleaning, fumigation, and drying are done to the stockroom before the grains are stored or deposited. The grains are later transported to dissimilar places throughout the year. Importance of Harvesting 1. Harvesting crops by using advanced technology reduces the wastage of grains and increases in quality and quantity. 2. The direction of cutting fruits, grains and vegetables are very important during harvesting to save the quality of the fruits and also, we should see that the tools used should not damage the plant. 3. Harvesting at the right stage enriches the quality of grains or seed protection. Summary Harvesting is the act of gathering the edible parts of the plant after they approach the stage of maturity. Harvesting of crops is done using many tools and types of machinery in the agricultural fields. The tools that are used while harvesting, such as sickle, axe, etc.,. To harvest the crops like paddy, wheat, maize, grass, etc. Hand harvesting, harvesting with hand tools and harvesting with machinery are the three harvesting methods. Reaping, threshing, cleaning and hauling are the four stages of harvesting. The importance of harvesting crops by using advanced technology reduces the wastage of grains and increases in quality and quantity. Post-Harvest Management Best Practices and Methods Reducing post-harvest loss is critical. Great post-harvest management will help address the growing concerns around food sustainability. What does post-harvest mean? Post-harvest process is the stage that immediately follows the harvest. The final quantity and quality of the product depends on it. Appropriate pre-harvest practices and harvesting the crop at the right time using adequate farming equipment are also important in order to optimize the overall postharvest output. Additionally, post-harvest management includes various steps such as: Drying: This decreases the moisture levels to ensure safe storage and prevents grain germination. It also reduces the risk of fungal attack and contamination by aflatoxin, maximizing the quality of crops retained. Threshing Shelling: Threshing or shelling of grains helps to reduce the required storage capacity and minimize the susceptibility of the grain to pests. Cleaning Winnowing: This involves removing any foreign matter from the grain, such as leaf, stalk, or empty seeds, in order to optimize its market value. Storage: Protecting the grain from climatic changes and contamination by insects and pests is crucial. Various post-harvest grain storage methods can accomplish this.


Cleaning Winnowing: This involves removing any foreign matter from the grain, such as leaf, stalk, or empty seeds, in order to optimize its market value. Storage: Protecting the grain from climatic changes and contamination by insects and pests is crucial. Various post-harvest grain storage methods can accomplish this. Transport: Grains sold to buyers are transported to warehouses or markets where they are made available to the common folk. Minimize post-harvest losses and preserve produce by correctly following the steps above. How does grain storage play a major role? Agricultural products are stored before they are made available and accessible to the public. The storage process keeps grains, whether in bags or in bulk, in a storage structure. The structure, designed to protect the stored product for a short or long period, hosts the grains awaiting movement to other locations. Grain storage occurs at three levels: producer s level, trader s level, and urban organization storage level. Storing it is necessary for the following reasons: To provide a uniform supply of food throughout the year. Grains are produced seasonally while consumption is a constant. To provide reserve for contingencies such as flood, drought, pandemics, and other calamities. To speculate a good price either in domestic or in export markets. Hence storage is fundamental to the concept of food security. What happens if grain storage is improper? The main cause of deterioration of grain quality and decrease in grain quantity is improper storage. This can occur due to: Weather changes: Changes in climatic conditions such as rain, humidity, increased dampness, moisture; heat can harm the grain quality and seed viability. Infestation: Unfavorable environmental conditions can also make the grain more vulnerable to infestation by insects, pests, and molds. Incorrect Grain Storage resulting in post-harvest losses In fact, rodents and birds often attack incorrectly stored grains. They can not only feed on the grain, but also contaminate it with their urine, droppings, and hair feathers. These problems caused due to improper storage result in post-harvest losses in the form of: Weight loss of the agricultural produce. The grain is prone to rancidity or it may undergo sprouting, over-ripening if not stored properly. There is loss in quality and market value of the produce. Furthermore, the nutritive value of the grain also decreases.


The grain is prone to rancidity or it may undergo sprouting, over-ripening if not stored properly. There is loss in quality and market value of the produce. Furthermore, the nutritive value of the grain also decreases. What are the correct post-harvest storage methods?Proper grain storage methods are the key to reducing post-harvest losses. The quantity of produce and the duration of storage are important to choose the proper storage method. Storage in bags: Storing grains in bags is convenient for short-term storage when grains are intended to be moved early. Short term storage duration requires few measures against insects. Loose storage: Large quantities of grains can be stored in loose bulk storage. Requirements for correct storage are: A good storage site: Ventilate and keep the site cool. Have a strong roof to protect from high winds and rain. Ideally, raise the site off the ground to prevent ground water soaking into the stored grains. Produce in suitable condition: Ensure that the crop going into the store is in good condition, cleaned and well dried. It is also necessary to store the grain at the right moisture content. Intake of grain is orderly and controlled: Maintain the air-tight barrier each time the storage unit is opened and closed. Quality maintenance ensured: Keep stored grains in the shade to protect them from rodents and birds. Security against theft and loss: Keep the storage area locked in order to limit access. Any loss is identifiable and accountable: Regularly inspect the store to maintain the condition of crops throughout the storage period. Adherence to these requirements helps to know the quantity stored at any given time, decrease the grain loss during storage, and quickly recognize the causal agents of losses and accordingly control them. Hermetic storage Hermetic Bags by Save Grain Bags A post-harvest storage technology, Hermetic storage protects grain by creating an oxygen-deficient and carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere that is incompatible with the survival or breeding of pests. It creates an airtight and moisture-tight barrier, preserving the agricultural products in their optimal form.


CREATION Origin of sin and its consequences Gen: 3-11 Introduction Man and woman fell from the Garden of Eden. This experience is expla-ined in genesis chapter 3 verse 4; chapter 6 verse 9 and chapter 11. In these verses, the Bible is teaching about sin, which made Adam and Eve fall. Sin is defined as iniquity, and guilt. It is to miss a mark, to transgress. Sin is a rebellion or an offence against God. Sin originated with the disobedience of Adam and Eve. They had been commanded not to eat of the fruits of the tree of knowledge of good and evil the tree in the middle of the Garden of Eden. But Adam and Eve ate the fruit after being deceived by the serpent. Man had the power to resist temptation but instead he yielded. Genesis Chapter 3 verse 6 states that man wanted to be wise and thought how wonderful it would be to become wise hence sin arises from the lack of knowledge of God, from the denial of trust of God. The consequences of sin After sinning, we the human race and sinners: 1 Replaced friendship with God with fear of God. 2 Lost innocence. What had been innocent and good became shameful. Adam and Eve became ashamed of their nakedness, something they had never felt before they sinned against God. 3 Lost good relationship with God. The good relationship between God and man was betrayed. Human beings were alienated from God. The Lord God sent him out of the Garden of Eden 4 Damaged the perfect relationship between man and woman. The Lord said to the woman You will have desire for your husband, yet you will be subject to him . 5 Pain became part of human experience. I will greatly multiply your pain in child bearing . 6 Man began toiling and struggling to meet his needs You will have to work hard and sweat to make the soil produce anything 7 The home of man, and the earth itself was placed under a curse. Cursed is the ground because of you. Enmity between man and wild animals emerged. 9 Man began to die. Death sentence is passed upon all men. You will return to the ground you are dust 10 Man began to hate. Man developed murderous feelings in his heart, for example Cain killed Abel, his younger brother. 11 Man changed and became prone to sin.


You will return to the ground you are dust 10 Man began to hate. Man developed murderous feelings in his heart, for example Cain killed Abel, his younger brother. 11 Man changed and became prone to sin. 12 Life span of man was reduced see Gen. 6:3 I will not allow people to live forever, they will live no longer than 120 years 13 Man s language was confused by God after the flood read Gen.11: 7 14 Sin led to embarrassment, mistrust, suffering, pain, pride, arrogance and death. Summary Disobedience of God by Adam and Eve brought serious sin consequences to humanbeings. Sin brings sadness and suffering to man even today. Activity In groups of two or three, discuss the origin and consequences of sin. CONCEPT OF EVIL Introduction In this lesson, we shall discuss the concept of evil as told by the traditi-onal African religion and the biblical writings. We shall study similarities and differences of evil from the two religions. What is evil? In the traditional African society, evil was an offence against God, spirits and ancestors. It was also viewed as an offence against another person or community. Evil was also a misfortune that can befall an individual or a community. What are the causes of evil? Many of the traditional African societies do not associate God with evil. God is not the creator of evil. Some communities believe that evil is an external power that exists on its own. Thus in the traditional African society, evil was understood or explained as something mysterious that was caused by several people and things. These were:a Evil spirits b Ancestral spirits due to disobedience to them c Some animals like the chameleon are sources of evil. The Akamba believed that chameleons brought evil. Other communities believed that if an owl cries near one s homestead, it is a sign of evil. D People with mystical powers for example magic, sorcery, and witchcraft are evils e If a member of a community breaks a taboo by disobedience, this action may bring evil spirits. F The spirits of the dead; cause evil; if they are not remembered or respected. Evil spirits cause harm and violence.


D People with mystical powers for example magic, sorcery, and witchcraft are evils e If a member of a community breaks a taboo by disobedience, this action may bring evil spirits. F The spirits of the dead; cause evil; if they are not remembered or respected. Evil spirits cause harm and violence. Consequences of evil in traditional African society These were many and ranged from a Barrenness b Drought c Epidemics d Madness e Sickness f Death g Drowning h Burning in a house i War j Physically and mentally handicapped children l Rebellious children Values needed to overcome temptationsSkills needed to overcome temptations Recognize Your Tendency to Sin James 1:14 explains that we are tempted when we become enticed by our own natural desires. The first step toward overcoming temptation is to recognize the human tendency to be seduced by our own fleshly cravings. The temptation to sin is a given, so don't be surprised by it. Expect to be tempted daily, and be prepared for it. The apostle Peter reminds us to stay on the lookout: Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8, NIV Flee From Temptation But remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it. When you come face to face with temptation, look for the way out the way of escape that God has promised. Then skedaddle. Flee. Run as fast as you can. Resist Temptation with the Word of Truth Hebrews 4:12 says that God's Word is living, active, and powerful. Did you know you can carry a weapon that will make your thoughts obey Jesus Christ? According to Ephesians 6:17, one of our weapons is the Word of God: The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.


Did you know you can carry a weapon that will make your thoughts obey Jesus Christ? According to Ephesians 6:17, one of our weapons is the Word of God: The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:4 5, NIV Jesus overcame the devil's temptations in the wilderness with the Word of God. If it worked for him, it will work for us. And because Jesus was fully human, he is able to identify with our struggles and give us the exact help we need for overcoming temptation. While it can be helpful to read God's Word when you're being tempted, sometimes that's not practical. Even better is to practice reading the Bible daily so that eventually you have so much of it on the inside, you are ready whenever temptation strikes. If you are reading the Bible regularly, you will have the full counsel of God at your disposal. You will start to have the mind of Christ. When temptation comes knocking on your door, all you'll have to do is draw your weapon, aim, and fire. Refocus Your Mind and Heart with Praise How often have you been tempted to sin when your whole heart was fully concentrated on worshiping the Lord? I'm guessing your answer is never. Praising God takes our focus off of self and puts it on God. You may not be strong enough to resist temptation on your own, but as you focus on God, he will inhabit your praises. He will give you the strength to resist and walk away from the temptation. Psalm 147 might be a good place to start: Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him! Psalm 147:1, NIV Repent Quickly When You Fail In several places, the Bible tells us the best way to resist and overcome temptation is to flee from it 1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 10:14; 1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:22 . Even still, we fall from time to time. When we fail to flee temptation, eventually we will give in and fall.


Psalm 147:1, NIV Repent Quickly When You Fail In several places, the Bible tells us the best way to resist and overcome temptation is to flee from it 1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 10:14; 1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:22 . Even still, we fall from time to time. When we fail to flee temptation, eventually we will give in and fall. Having a more realistic view knowing that at times you will fail should help you to repent quickly when you do. Failing is not the end of the world, but it is dangerous to persist in your sin. Going back to the book of James, verse 1:15 explains that sin "when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.". Continuing or persisting in sin leads to spiritual death, and often even physical death. That is why it's best to repent quickly when you know you've fallen into sin Others include: 1. Keep yourself busy 2. Avoid comparison as it triggers temptations 3. Avoid watching negative films, movies etc. 4. Keep your mind focused and positive 5. Seek help where needed be God s plan of salvation After the fall of man, God took steps to heal the damaged situation and relationship between Him and Adam and Eve. GOD: 1. Provided clothing of skin to Adam and Eve. 2. Looked for Adam and Eve since they were hiding from His presence. 3. Provided Adam and Eve with the knowledge to find different foods. 4. Declared enmity between man and the snake. 5. Hinted at the ultimate victory of man when He said that the seed of the woman would crush the snake or serpent s head. The serpent would attack the heel of man and woman. All through the Old Testament, and the New Testament, we see God s plan of salvation being manifested. For instance, GOD chose and separated Abraham from other communities. The children of Israel led by Moses were delivered from Egypt,. God sent prophets to teach and warn the Israelites of the dangers of sin. Finally God sent his only son Jesus Christ to die on the cross to save human kind. SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TRADITIONAL AFRICAN VIEW OF EVIL AND BIBLICAL CONCEPT OF SIN Similarities Both the Biblical and traditional African view or agree that 1 God is supreme.


God sent prophets to teach and warn the Israelites of the dangers of sin. Finally God sent his only son Jesus Christ to die on the cross to save human kind. SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TRADITIONAL AFRICAN VIEW OF EVIL AND BIBLICAL CONCEPT OF SIN Similarities Both the Biblical and traditional African view or agree that 1 God is supreme. God is neither the creator nor author of evil 2 Sin comes from the disobedience of God by human beings 3 Evil and misfortune are God s curse to man Biblical while the traditional African society sees evil as curses by ancestors, and elders. Both curses lead to misfortunes. 4 The result of sin and evil is human sufferings 5 Sin and evil lead to man being separated from God 6 God is the guardian of law and order 7 Human beings have the ability to overcome evil Differences 1 Biblical account emphasizes personal nature of sin while in the African concept; sin is more social and communal 2 Biblical account attributes evil to disobedience while African concept attributes evil not only to disobediences but other external forces. 3 Biblical accounts offer a message of hope to overcome evil while African concept doesn t offer a solution to sin and evil. 4 Traditional African concept all forms of suffering as a result of sin while in the Bible suffering is not always a result of sin. Questions 1 Explain the differences between the two creation stories 2 State the traditional African view of creation 3 Explain how human beings continue with the work of creation 4 What is the origin of sin and evil according to traditional African society? 5 Give three consequences of sin as stated in Genesis 6 State the consequences of evil according to African traditional societies 7 Trace God s plan of salvation of human kindCompare biblical and traditional African understanding of evil and sin. 9 What does the command Subdue the earth in Genesis 1 verse 28 mean? THE BIBLE CALL OF ABRAHAM BACKGROUND TO THE CALL OF ABRAHAM Genesis 11:24-32, 12 Introduction The background to the call of Abraham is found in the first book of the bible. This is Genesis which is a Greek word meaning Beginning . The relationship between Adam and God was good but after Adam disobeyed GOD, their relationship changed because of sin by Eve and Adam. After sometime, God repaired this relationship by calling Abraham and offering salvation.