*🟢 Stage 1: Problem Identification* a) *Problem Description*: Many farmers in our area experience poor crop yields due to lack of knowledge about soil structure. b) *Statement of Intent*: To investigate soil structure and how it affects farming productivity. c) *Main Theme*: Agriculture and Environment. d) *Design Specifications*: Research different soil types, test soil samples, and create a model showing ideal soil structure for farming. --- *🟡 Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas* a) *Methods of Collecting Data*: Interviewed local farmers, observed soil on fields, researched using books and internet. b) *Research Questions*: - What are the types of soil structures? - How does soil structure affect water retention and plant growth? - Which soil is best for farming? c) *Findings*: - Found types like granular, blocky, and platy soil. - Granular soil allows good water flow and root growth. d) *Analysis*: Granular and crumb structures are best for crops, especially in sandy loam soils found locally. --- *🟠 Stage 3: Generation of Ideas* a) *Possible Solutions*: - Teach farmers about soil testing - Demonstrate composting to improve structure - - Design a model of ideal soil layers b) *Merits*: Promotes better yields, low-cost methods c) *Demerits*: Some farmers lack resources or tools d) *Presentation of Ideas*: Poster showing soil layers and their effects on crops --- *🔵 Stage 4: Development of Chosen Idea* a) *Refining the Idea*: Chose to build a layered model using real soil samples and labels b) *Testing and Experimenting*: Compared plant growth in sandy, clay, and loam soil c) *Final Version*: A display showing 3 soil types and crops grown in each --- *🟣 Stage 5: Presentation of Results* a) *Presenting Final Solution*: Presented model in class with labeled soil samples and photos of plant growth b) *Explanation of the Outcome*: Loam soil showed best plant growth. The model helps understand why structure matters. --- *🔴 Stage 6: Evaluation and Recommendations* a) *Evaluation*: *Strengths* – Clear model, real samples, useful to community *Weaknesses* – Limited time to grow plants fully b) *Recommendations*: - Work with local schools to educate more students - Create leaflets for farmers about improving soil structure ---