Page 226 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

weight is read (taken) directly. This method gives the most accurate results.
Weighing tape is a special tape marked to show the animal’s weight in kilograms
based on its chest size (girth). To use the weighing tape this is a procedure:

(a) Stand the animal on a flat surface with its head up and legs straight.
(b) Wrap the tape around the animal’s chest, just behind the front legs and
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over the shoulders.
(c) Pull the tape so it fits closely, but not tightly.
(d) Read the weight where the tape ends meet.
(e) Record the result and repeat this process regularly to monitor growth.

This method is simple and useful on small farms. Although not accurate as a
scale, it gives a good estimate of the animal’s live weight when done properly
and regularly.
This method is simple and useful on small farms. Although not accurate as a
weighing scale, it gives a good estimate of the animal’s live weight when done
properly and regularly.

Activity 10.11

1. Weighing and growth monitoring:
(a) Use a weighing tape or scale to measure the weight of a calf or a sample
object.
(b) Practise recording weights and marking changes over time on a chart or
form.

(c) Discuss in the group what action to take if weight gain is too low.
2. Hygiene and handling tasks:
(a) Practise cleaning and organising the tools used in herd management.
(b) Demonstrate calm and safe animal handling using ropes or mock
situations.

(c) Identify common mistakes that cause stress or injury and show how to
avoid them.

Exercise 10.5
1. (a) Why is it important to plan the breeding season in beef cattle?

(b) What factors should be considered when choosing the right time for
mating?

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