CARRIBEAN SECONDARY EDUCATION CERTIFICATE

EXAMINATION

SCHOOL-BASED-ASSESMENT

Name of Candidate: David Navendranauth Rabindra Subnauth

Candidate Number: 0900071346

Name of Centre: The Bishops’ High School

Center Number: 090007

Year of Examination: 2025

Subject: Agricultural Science

Teacher: Jane Rampersaud

1
Territory: The Co-operative Republic of Guyana

PAGE
CONTENTS
#
Acknowledgement ………………………………………………………………… 3

INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………………….. 4

Literature Review …………………………………………………………………. 5

Problem Statement ………………………………………………………………... 7

Aims ………………………………………………………………………………. 8

METHODOLOGY ……………………………………………………………… 9

Experimental Design ……………………………………………………………… 10

Materials and Equipment …………………………………………………………. 11

Activities ………………………………………………………………………….. 18

Data Collection ……………………………………………………………………. 20

RESULTS ……………………………………………………………………….. 21

Presentation of Data ………………………………………………………………. 24

DISCUSSION ……………………………………..……………………………… 26

CONCLUSION LIMITATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ........................... 28

Conclusion ………………………………………………………………………… 29

Limitations ………………………………………………………………………... 30

2
Recommendations ………………………………………………………………… 31

3
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researcher is deeply grateful to all who supported him during this School-Based Assessment

(SBA). First, I thank Bhagwan for the ability, intelligence, health, and Gyan necessary for the

procedure of this task. I express my sincere gratitude to my teachers, Miss Jane Rampersaud, and

Miss Vonda Lonke for their invaluable guidance and assistance in completing various tasks.

Additionally, I extend my appreciation to my classmates for their support and collaboration.

Their help was a source of motivation and inspiration.

4
INTRODUCTION

5
 LITERATURE REVIEW

Comparative Study of Broiler Chickens Given Broiler Grower Feed versus Starter Feed

Introduction:

The domesticated broiler chicken (Gallus Gallus Domesticus), is bred specifically for

rapid growth and efficient meat production, making them vital to the meat industry. This analysis

will compare the effects of starter and grower feed on the birds.

Starter Feed: According to Scott et al. (2012), starter feeds are specially made to meet the

nourishment needs of chicks, such feeds will include:

 High Protein Content:

Starter feeds typically contain a high protein content (20-24%) (Scott et al., 2012), which

is essential for rapid development in the chicks.

 Dense Energy Supply:

Grower Feed: According to Leeson & Summers, 2005, grower feeds are slightly lower in energy

as they are nutritionally adjusted for the growing broilers.

 Protein:

The protein in grower feed is reduced by about 18-20% than starter feeds (Scott et

al., 2012).

 Energy Levels:

High energy density supports growth while minimizing fat deposition (Leeson &

Summers, 2005).

6
 Impact on Broiler Performance: According to National Research Council, 1994, both feeds,

along with proper management of feeds are essential for

 Growth:

Starter feeds speed up early growth while grower feeds support growth slightly

slower. (Leeson & Summers, 2005).

 Skeletal Development:

Adequate calcium and phosphorus is present in both feeds to ensure proper bone

development (National Research Council, 1994).

Conclusion

A strategic combination of both stater and grower feeds is essential for optimal

development of the broilers. Starter feeds provide the necessary nutrition for early growth while

grower feed adjusts the nutrition levels to support efficient growth, while reducing risks of

nutrient imbalances. Proper management of the feed transition is crucial for optimal broiler

growth.

References:

 Leeson, S., & Summers, J. D. (2005). Commercial poultry nutrition. University of Guelph.

 National Research Council (NRC). (1994). Nutrient requirements of poultry. National

Academies Press.

 Scott, M. L., Silversides, F. E., & Pullar, J. D. (2012). Poultry nutrition. CABI.

7
 PROBLEM STATEMENT

A student observed varying weight gain among broilers on his family's farm and

experimented with different starter and grower feeds to address this issue. The goal was to see

how these feeds impacted the birds' size and weight.

8
 AIMS

1. To make maximum profit from the sale of broiler meat and value-added broiler product.

2. To compare and investigate the effects of altering the starter and grower dietary phases on

weight gain in broiler production.

3. To compare the income generated from the sale of broiler meat with that of a value-

added broiler product.

9
METHODOLOGY

10
 EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

The students of The Bishops’ High School conducted an investigation in the school’s

poultry pen from May 28th, 2024, to June 18th, 2024. The study involved the following:

Student responsibilities included:

 Sanitation: Cleaning and turning the litter daily.

 Feeding: Chicks were fed daily with appropriate diets.

Method:

1. 30 chicks were purchased and placed in the brooding area.

2. The pen was divided into two sections with 15 chicks each.

3. Litter was cleaned and turned daily.

4. Treatment 1 (control) received broiler grower feed.

5. Treatment 2 (treatment) received broiler starter feed.

6. Mortality and weight of chickens were recorded daily.

7. Weighing was done at regular intervals.

8. Results and Observations were recorded.

Observations:

 The average weight of chickens in Treatment 1 was 5 kg.

 The average weight of chickens in Treatment 2 was 5.5 kg.

11
 MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

Broiler Production

Tools and
Uses Images
Equipment

Brooder Provides shelter and warmth.

Brooder guard Confines the chicks in a controlled environment

Feeders Provides a steady flow of feed.

Waterers Provides a steady flow of water..

12
Spade Used to remove old or soaked litter for disposal.

Rake Used to spread out the litter material in the pen.

Used to measure the weight of the birds both

Scale
before and after slaughter.

Broom Used to clean the pen before setting up the litter.

Provides a soft litter, and reduces ammonia from

Wood shavings
droppings.

13
Disinfectant Used to sterilize before entering the pen

Hose Used to clean the pen and to wash tools.

Used for transport of feed, and for cleaning of

Buckets
the pen.

Rags Used to clean equipment and maintain hygiene.

Used to efficiently remove feathers from the

Plucking machine
carcasses after slaughter.

14
Knife Used to slaughter and process the broilers.

Used to hold water or ice during the processing

Plastic Tub
of the carcass

Used to package and store the processed

Plastic bags
carcasses for storage and sale.

Ice Used to store and preserve the broiler carcasses.

15
Adding Value:

Tools and
Uses Images
Equipment

Bowl To mix seasonings and marinate broiler meat.

To cut and process broiler meat for value

Knife
addition.

Cutting board Used as a surface for cutting meat.

16
 enhances flavour and adds value to the processed
Mix of seasonings
broiler product.

Plastic wrap Used to packaging meat for storage.

Labels To brand and identify packaged broiler products.

17
Plastic board To assist in processing meat hygienically.

Basin To hold meat during processing or cleaning.

Refrigerator Used to store and preserve the meat..

18
 ACTIVITIES

1. Pen Preparation:

The poultry pen was thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and equipped with feeders,

drinkers, and bedding, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for the birds.

2. Setting up the Brooder:

A brooder was assembled using fluorescent lights and wood shavings to provide optimal

temperature and protection for the newly arrived chicks.

3. Arrival of Chicks:

The chicks were received and carefully placed into the pre-warmed brooder to ensure

their immediate comfort and health.

4. Feeding of Birds:

The birds were given a balanced starter feed suitable for their growth stage, distributed in

feeders to minimize wastage and contamination.

5. Managing Litter:

The bedding material was frequently turned to maintain dryness and prevent the buildup

of ammonia and harmful bacteria, ensuring a healthy environment for the birds.

6. Slaughtering the Birds:

Fully-grown birds were slaughtered following hygienic and ethical practices, preparing

them for processing.

7. Packaging the Carcasses:

The processed chicken carcasses were carefully packaged in hygienic materials, labeled,

and sealed to preserve quality and facilitate safe storage or transportation.

19
8. Value Addition:

Additional processing, such as marinating or seasoning, was carried out to enhance the

appeal and market value of the poultry products, catering to consumer preferences.

20
 DATA COLLECTION

Two sets of data were recorded daily; the weight and the survival rate of the chickens.

These measurements were recorded using a cell phone for accurate documentation and analysis.

21
RESULTS

22
 RESULTS

Table 1: Table Showing the Survival Rate of Chickens at the end of each Week

Number of Chicks that Survived

Time (Weeks)
Treatment Controlled

1 15 15

2 15 12

3 14 12

4 14 12

Table 1 presents the survival rates of chickens during the experimental period. In

Treatment 1, where chickens were fed daily with broiler grower feed, 14 chickens survived until

the end. Conversely, in Treatment 2, where chickens received broiler starter feed daily, 12

chickens survived. By the experiment's conclusion, the control group experienced higher

mortality compared to the treatment group

23
 Table 2: Table Showing the Average Weight of the Chickens in the Experiment

Average Weight of Chicks/kg

Time (Weeks)
Treatment Controlled

1 2.8 2.77

2 6.62 4.05

3 5.5 5.1

4 5.5 5.1

Table 2 demonstrates fluctuations in the average weight of birds in both the treatment and

control groups. By the end of the experimental period, the treatment group achieved a higher

average weight. In Treatment 1, the weight increased from 2.8 kg to 6.62 kg before settling at 5.5

kg. In Treatment 2, the weight rose from 2.77 kg to 5.1 kg.

24
 PRESENTATION OF DATA

Graph 1

Graph Showing the Survival Rate of Chickens during the

Experiment
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4

Treatment 1 Treatment 2

Graph 1 illustrates the mortality rates of chickens in the treatment group (Treatment 1)

and the control group (Treatment 2) throughout the experimental period. In Treatment 1 (broiler

grower feed), the number of chickens decreased slightly from 15 in Week 1 to 14 by Week 3,

with no further losses up to Week 4. Treatment 2 (broiler starter feed) experienced a more

significant decline, losing two chickens between Weeks 1 and 2, reducing the count from 15 to

12, with the remaining twelve surviving until Week 4. This underscores the lower mortality rate

linked with grower feed.

25
Graph 2

Graph Showing the Average Weight of the Chickens in the

Experiment
7

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4

Treat ment 1 Treatment 2 Column1

Graph 2 displays the average weight of chickens (in kg) in the treatment group

(Treatment 1) and the control group (Treatment 2) throughout the experimental period. In

Treatment 1,chickens were fed grower feed, their weight increased from 2.8 kg in Week 1 to 6.62

kg in Week 2, then decreased to 5.5 kg in Week 3, and remained stable in Week 4. In contrast,

Treatment 2, which received broiler starter feed, showed a steady weight increase from 2.77 kg

in Week 1 to 5.1 kg in Week 3, with no further changes noted in Week 4. These trends highlight

the differing weight dynamics between the two feeding schedules.

26
DISCUSSION

27
 DISCUSSION

This experiment investigated the impact of feed type and technology on broiler chicken weight

gain and farm profitability. Results showed broilers fed grower feed gained 7.8% more weight

than those fed starter feed. This addressed the farm's inconsistent weight gain issue and possibly

increased efficiency in production

Technology played a crucial role throughout the process. During production, a brooder

maintained consistent temperature and humidity, minimizing chick mortality (only one death in

the grower feed group and three in the starter feed group). Efficient feeders and waterers further

optimized growth. Post-production, proper slaughter methods and hygienic processing

equipment, including knives, cutting boards, and packaging materials, ensured meat quality and

marketability. Value-added products like marinated chicken offered potential for increased

revenue.

These technical and technological interventions significantly impacted profitability. Reduced

mortality rates increased the number of birds for sale. Value-added products commanded higher

prices. Efficient equipment minimized feed waste and labor costs, further improving operational

efficiency.

In conclusion, using grower feed effectively addressed inconsistent weight gain, leading to a

7.8% increase in average weight and potential revenue. Lower mortality rates in the grower feed

group further boosted profitability. Implementing these findings and incorporating value-added

processing can significantly improve the farm's production efficiency and overall profitability.

28
 CONCLUSION,

LIMITATIONS AND

RECOMENDATIONS

29
 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the experiment demonstrated that using grower feed significantly

improved broiler weight gain by 7.8%, addressing the issue of inconsistent weight gain on the

farm. This led to increased meat yield and potential revenue, along with reduced mortality rates

and enhanced profitability by use of value addition processing.

30
 LIMITATIONS

The scope of the experiment was limited to only one type of grower and starter feed, and

it did not account for variables such as environmental conditions, broiler breed differences, or

potential long-term effects on health and productivity.

31
 RECOMMENDATIONS

For optimal broiler production further experimentations with different grower formulas is

recommended. Furthermore, the implementation of advanced technologies and value adding

process is recommended to boost profitability and efficiency.

32