Range of Technologies Commonly Used in Agricultural and Horticultural Businesses

Task: Analyse and evaluate a range of technologies commonly used in agricultural and/or horticultural businesses, and explain the reasons for the selection and application of technology for a specific business. A biosecurity plan is an essential part of this outcome.

Key knowledge to be assessed for the assessment task includes:- • Description and evaluation of the effectiveness of a range of techniques used to alter or control local climatic and environmental conditions, and topography. • Description and evaluation of the effectiveness of a range of techniques used to sustainably manage soil/growing media, and water. • Identify and describe plant and/or animal pests and diseases and their impact on business: and evaluate methods of prevention, control and treatment. • Identify and describe weed species and their impact on business; and evaluate methods of prevention and control. • Description of the components of biosecurity plans for the integrated management of pests, diseases and/or weeds. • Evaluation of record keeping, analysis methods and modelling to assist decision making to improve outputs.

Assessment criteria: Key skills 1. Description and evaluation of the effectiveness of a comprehensive range of techniques used to alter, control and/or manage plant and animal environments. 2. Knowledge of plant and/or animal pests, diseases and weeds and their impacts 3. Evaluation of the methods of prevention and treatment, including the use of a biosecurity plan and integrated management. 4. Evaluation of record keeping, analysis methods and modelling to assist decision making to improve outputs.

NOTE: Key skill No. 1 is the assessment task.

Assessment task: may be in the form of:- • Multimedia presentation • Essay • Report (oral/written/visual)

Time allowed/completed by: Week 7 and Week 8
Total possible marks 30

Marking Guide:

1. Description and evaluation of the