Educational Leadership

Caption: Instructional Methods – Section B: Crop Production (CSEC Agricultural Science)

In teaching Section B: Crop Production, a range of student-centred instructional strategies were employed to enhance conceptual understanding and practical skill development. Topics covered included soil formation and conservation, types and methods of plant propagation, nursery practices, factors affecting crop growth, and plant nutrition and pest management. Lessons began with direct instruction to introduce key concepts, followed by interactive discussions, demonstrations, and guided discovery activities to deepen engagement. A highlight of the unit was a hands-on practical in citrus budding, where students applied the T-budding technique using live plant material—reinforcing knowledge of asexual propagation while developing fine motor skills and scientific observation. Field visits to the school garden and problem-solving tasks such as diagnosing nutrient deficiencies allowed students to connect theory to real-world contexts. Formative tools such as exit slips, reflection journals, and group presentations were used to assess learning and encourage metacognition.