mwalimuepublishers@gmail.

com

KCSE MADE FAMILIAR

AGRICULTURE
Topically Analysed KCSE past Questions

For Marking Schemes Call 0705525657

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 1

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURE

K.C.S.E PAST PAPERS

1. What is plantation farming system?

2. State the main characteristics of shifting cultivation.

3. Differentiate between olericulture and pomoculture

4. State three characteristics of shifting cultivation.

5. State six reasons why agriculture is important in Kenya’ s economy

6. State two ways in which agriculture contributes directly

to the development of industries.

7. Give the limitations of pastoral Farming.

8. State any two disadvantages of pastoral nomadism system of farming.

FACTORS INFLUENCING AGRICULTURE

K.C.S.E PAST PAPERS

1. List four environmental factors that affect crop distribution in Kenya.

2. State two ways by which wind affects the growth of crops.

3. a) State two ways by which wind affects the growth of crops.

b) Give two roles of micro-organisms in the soil that are beneficial to crops

c) State three properties of soil that are influenced by its texture.

4. List down the four aspects of rainfall that affect agriculture.

5. Describe the environmental conditions that may lead to low crop yields.
FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 2
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
6. Outline three effects of soil organisms which benefit crop growth.

7. State two causes of hard pan in a crop yield.

8. a) Name tow processes of rock weathering.

b) Differentiate between soil texture and soil structure.

c) State three benefits of good soil structure in crop production.

9. a) List two aspects of light that influence crop growth.

b) The diagram below shows an experiment set up using soil types

&, H and J and observations made after 24 hours. Study the diagram and answer

the questions that follow.

i) What is the experiment represented above designed to study?

ii) Name the three soil types & H and J.

iii) What is the characteristic texture of soil types G and J?

iv) State how a farmer would improve the structure of soil type G.

10. a) Give 3 reasons why soil is important to crops.

b) State two benefits of optimum soil temperature in crop production.

c) Give 3 factors of soil that influence soil productivity.

11. Give three reasons why soil is important to crops.

12. a) Give four reasons why a well drained soil is suitable for
FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 3
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
crop production.

b) State two benefits of optimum soil temperature in crop production.

c) Give three soil factors that influence soil productivity.

13. State three advantages of adding organic matter to sandy soil.

14. a) State tow roles of good soil aeration in crop growth.

b) Give two roles of micro-organisms in the soil that are beneficial

to corps.

c) State three properties of soil that are influenced by its texture.

FARM TOOLS AND MACHINERY

1. Give one use of each of the following hammers;

i) Ball pen hammer ii) Sledge hammer

State two maintenance practices that should be carried out on a wheelbarrow.

2. The diagram labeled N I, N II, N III below represent some tolls

used in farms.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 4

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
i) What functional advantage does the tool labeled N II have over the

tool labeled NIII?

ii) What is the function of tool labeled NI iii) Give the maintenance

practice of NI

3. Study the photographs below carefully and answer the questions that follows:

a) i) Identify 1------------------------

2 -----------------------

ii) Give the land preparation stage when 2 is used

b) i) Which of the tools is suited for a field with roots, trash and

other obstacles?

ii) Give a reason for your answer in b(i)

4. State one use of each of the following tools;

(i) Spoke shave (ii) Plumb bob

5. Name two tools used for cutting galvanized iron pipes.

6. State four maintenance requirements of a jack plane.

7. List four tools used for laying concrete blocks when constructing a wall.
FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 5
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
8. a) What is the difference between a tenon saw and a crosscut saw?

b) What safety measure should be taken when using a crosscut saw?

c) Give three maintenance practices that should be carried

out on crosscut saws.

9. Give the factor, that are considered when selecting a garden tool

for primary cultivation.

10: (a) State one use of each of the following tools, (i) sickle

ii) Secateurs.

b) Give two reasons for proper maintenance of farm implements.

c) State three factors that should be considered when selecting gardener

tools for primary cultivation.

12. L, M, N and O are diagrams of farm tools. Study them and answer

the questions that follow.

i) Identify the farm tools; L, AA>N and O. (ii) State the use of each tool

L, AA, N and O.

13. List the tool used for each of the following

i) Tightening barbed wires during fencing,

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 6
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
ii) Smoothening concrete flours during plastering.

iii) Administration of liquid medicine to livestock through the mouth.

iv) Processing butter-------------------

14. List five tools used when constructing a wooden fence.

15. a) Diagrams M, N, P and Q represents some farm tools.

i) Identify the tools; M,N,P and Q.

ii) Give the use of each of the tools named above.

iii) State two maintenance practices that should be carried out on tool M.

(b) The diagram below shows a farm equipment. Study it and answer the

questions that follow.

i) Identify the equipment.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 7
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
ii) Name the parts labeled R, S, T and U.

CROP PRODUCTION – LAND PREPARATION

K.C.S.E PAST PAPERS

1. State 4 reasons for primary cultivation.

2. State four reasons for primary cultivation.

10. State four factors which determine the depth of Ploughing.

3. (a) Give tow reasons why the use of fire should be discouraged

in clearing land during seedbed preparation.

b) Give tow reasons for secondary cultivation.

c) State two benefits of minimum tillage in crop production.

4. List four implements used to carry out secondary cultivation

5. State two causes of hard pans in a crop field.

6. Give the maintenance practices of a disc plough.

7. State reasons why use of fire in clearing land is discouraged.

8. Outline the main reasons for secondary tillage.

9. State the main benefits of minimum tillage

10. a) State one condition under which a farmer would prefer to

use an ox-cart instead of tractor – drawn trailer.

b) Give three maintenance practices carried on an ox – plough.

11. Give four farming practices that may help in achieving minimum tillage.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 8

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

WATER SUPPLY AND IRRIGATION

K.C.S.E PAST PAPERS

1. Give the main methods of conveying water from place to place.

2. State two methods of storing water on a farm.

3. State two ways of overcoming the problem of water logging in

crop production.

4. State four methods of treating water for domestic use.

5. (a) Give tow ways of conserving water for livestock use.

6. State two means by which water can be conveyed from the place of

Storage to where it is needed on the farm.

7. Name four types of water pumps which can be used on the farm.

8. List two features of plastic pipes a farmer should consider before

buying the pipes.

9. a) State three factors to be considered before deciding on irrigation in

crop production.

b) State three advantages of overhead irrigation compared to

surface irrigation.

10. Give four feature of plastic pipes a farmer should consider before

buying the pipes.

11. Name four types of water pumps which can be used on a farm.

12. Which of these factors would you consider in deciding on irrigation in

crop production.

13. In what way is water useful for agriculture activities?

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 9
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
14. a) Explain the reasons for treating water on the farm.

b) State the uses of water in the farm.

c) Describe the process involved in water treatment using

a chemical treatment system.

15. Give two factors that influence the quantity of water used in the farm.

16. State three farming activities which may cause pollution to water sources.

17. State three advantages of crop irrigation in a farm.

18. Study the illustration below carefully am answer the questions

which follow River.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 10

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
a) Identify the illustration

b) Explain part 1 -6

19. Outline two routine maintenance practices carried out on water

storage tanks.

20. List three types of surface irrigation in crop production.

21. List four methods used to drain farm land.

22. a) List three surface water sources found in a farm.

b) Give two reasons for treating water before use in a farm.

23. Give the reasons why water treatment ii important.

SOIL FERTILITY – ORGANIC MANURES

K.C.S.E PAST PAPERS

1. How is green maturing carried out on a farm?

(a) Give four reasons why it is advantageous to use farm yard

manure instead of straight fertilizer.

(b) State four factors that determine the quality of farm yard manure.

2. State four ways by which plant nutrients may be lost fro the soil.

3. Outline the various benefits of F. Y. M in the farm.

4. a) Define soil fertility

b) List the major characteristics of a fertile soil.

5. The diagram below is a presentation of a cross section through a compost

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 11
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
Heap. Study it and answer the questions which follow.

a) i) Name the parts labeled 1 –

Give the importance of 5, 4, 3

b) Why is it advisable that

i) A long sharp pointed stick driven into the file at an angle.

ii) Compost pits be preferably alone in more drier area / weather.

9. Give four ways by which soil loses its fertility

10. State four characteristics that make a crop suitable for green manuring.

11. State three factors that determine the quality of compost manure.

12. State four characteristics of a fertile soil.

13. Name three farming practices which may lead to soil erosion.

14. State three factors which should be considered when sitting a

compost heap.

15. State three advantages of adding organic matter to sandy soil.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 12
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION – (COMMON BREEDS)

K.C.S.E PAST PAPERS

2. i) Name the breed of camel that is used for provision of

quicker mode of transport and is & better adapted for

arid conditions.

ii) Give two reasons why this species of camel is well adapted

to North par of Kenya.

3. i) Give two reasons why jersey breeds is better suited for

marginal areas than Friesians breed.

3. Name the major characteristics of indigenous cattle breeds.

4. Give the major features of exotic beef breeds

1. Name the exotic cattle with

i) Highest butter fat content

ii) Lowest butter fat content

5. State two characteristics of goats that make them adaptable to

arid areas of Kenya.

6. Give three ways used to improve & production in indigenous cattle.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 13

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

AGRICULTURE ECONOMICS – BASIC CONCEPTS AND

FARM RECORDS

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. List any four types of records a farmer should keep.

2. State four reasons for keeping health records in livestock production

3. State the conditions under which the opportunity cost is Zero in a

farming enterprise.

SOIL FERTILITY II – INORGANIC FERTILIZERS

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. State four characteristics of Nitrogenous fertilizers (2mks)

2. Calculate the amount of K2O contained in 400kg of a compound

fertilizer 25:10:5. (2mks)

3. State four functions of Potassium in plant growth. (2mks)

4. Give two symptoms of potassium deficiency in crops ( 2mks)

5. State four ways by which plant nutrients may be lost from the soil (2mks)

6. a) State three functions of nitrogen in crops (2mks)

b) State two symptoms of nitrogen deficiency in a growing

maize crop (2mks)

7. State four effects of excessive application of Nitrogenous fertilizers

on crop growth. (2mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 14

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
8. Give two functions of sulphur in crops (2mks)

9. Give four deficiency symptoms of phosphorous in crops. (2mks)

10. List four ways of applying fertilizers in crops (2mks)

11. a) Differentiate between macro – nutrients and mirco – nutrients

(2mks)

b) State four functions of Calcium in plant growth and

development (2mks)

CROP PRODUCTION II – PLANTING

KCSE PAST PAPERS.

1. State four benefits of using vegetative propagation in orange

production.(2mks)

2. (a) Give two advantages of growing cereal crops in rows instead

of broadcasting.(2mks)

(b) Give two reasons for planting crops at correct spacing (2mks)

(c) Give two factors that determine the depth at which seeds should

be planted. (2mks)

3. State any four factors that determine the spacing of a crop (2mks)

4. Give two reasons for sowing annual crops early in the planting

season.(2mks)

5. Why should legume seeds be inoculated before planting (1mks)

6. State two benefits a farmer would get by having the correct

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 15

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
plant population in the production of annual crops. (2mks)

7. State four factors that influence spacing when planting a pure stand

maize. (2mk)

8. Give two factors that would influence the time of planting beans (1mk)

9. Give four reasons for seed selection in crop production. (2mks)

10. State six factors that influence the spacing of an annual crop. (2mks)

11. Give four advantages of under sowing in pasture production. (2mks)

12. (a) Give two harmful effects of high population density in a maize crop growth for grain

production (2mks)

(b) Calculate the plant population per hectares of a maize crop planted at a spacing of

100cm x 50cm. Show your working (2mks)

13. Name two crop production practices carried after planting to achieve optimum plant population.

(1mk)

14. State five qualities of the mother plant which should be considered when selecting vegetative

materials for planting. (2mks)

15. State four factors that determine the time of planting of a crop. (2mks)

16. Give four disadvantages of planting seed using broadcasting method.

(2mks)

17. List four factors that determine (2mks)

18. Give six reasons for timely planting of annual crops. (3mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 16

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

CROP PRODUCTION-NURSERY PRACTICES

KCSE PAST PAPERS

Give a reason for carrying out each of the following practices in a tomato

nursery.(i) Pricking out (ii) Hardening off.

Give two activities carried out during hardening off tomato seedlings (2mks)

Give two characteristics of a good root stock for grafting. (1mk)

CROP PRODUCTION (IV) – FIELD PRACTICES

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. State four reasons for pruning fruit crops (2mks)

2. Give two reasons for drying grains before storage. (2mks)

3. (a) Why is training done in some crops. (1mk)

(b) Name two crops, which require training.

5. State two factors that determine the stage at which a grain crop is ready for

harvesting (1mk)

6. State four benefits of using organic matter for mulching, sounds (2mks)

7. State two ways in which inorganic mulch helps to conserve moisture in the

soil (1mk)

8. (a) What is crop rotation? (1mk)

(b) State three advantages of crop rotation. (1mk)

(c) State three factors considered when designing a crop rotation programme

(2mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 17

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

CROP PRODUCTION (V) – VEGETABLES

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. (a) Give one cause of blossom end rot in tomatoes

(b) State two methods of controlling blossom end rot in

tomatoes (2mks)

2. State four factors to consider when grading tomatoes for fresh market.

LIVESTOCK HEALTH – INTRODUCTION

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. (a) State three advantages of keeping a herd of dairy cattle health.

(3mks)

2. (a) State two reasons for maintaining livestock in good health. (2mks)

(b) Name two noticeable diseases in cattle. (2mks)

3. State two ways by which proper feeding contribute to disease control in livestock. (1mk)

4. Explain measures used to control livestock diseases. (12 marks)

5. Give four ways in which diseases can spread can spread from one animal to the other within the

farm.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 18

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

LIVE STOCK HEALTH – PARASITES

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. (a) Which livestock disease is transmitted by each of the following ticks?

(2mks)

(i) Blue tick (Boophilous decoloratus)

(ii) Brown ear tick (Rhipicephalous appendicula tus)

(b) How many hosts does the red-legged tick (Rhipicephalous averts)

require to complete its life cycle? (1mk)

2. (a) State four signs of infestation by external parasites in livestock? (2mks)

3. (a) State four signs of infestation by external parasites in livestock? (2mks)

(b) Name the intermediate host for each of the following internal parasites.

(2mks)

Tape worm (Taenia solium) (ii) Liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica)

4. Describe the life cycle of a three- host tick. (8mks)

5. State four non-chemical methods of controlling ticks in cattle. (2mks)

6. Give four measures that should be taken to control tapeworms on the farm.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 19

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

LIVE STOCK PRODUCTION (II) – NUTRITION

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. What is a production ration as used in animal nutrition? (1mk)

2. Name two groups into which vitamins are classified. (1 mk)

3. State 3 factors that influence the amount of water intake by a farm

Animal. (11/2 mks)

4 (a) Differentiate between a roughage and a concentrate feed in animal

nutrition. (2mks)

(b) State three ways in which a production ration may be utilized by

cattle. (3 mks)

5. Give four characteristics of a livestock roughage feedstuff.

6. Outline four functions of proteins in the body of an animal. (2mks)

7. Outline four factors that determine the nutritional requirements in

Cattle (2mks)

8. Give 4 functions of calcium in dairy cow. (2mks)

9. State four factors that are considered when formulating a livestock

ration (2 marks)

10. (a) Explain the term “ production ration” as used in livestock

productions. (1mk)

b) State four factor which determine the amount of feed an animal

can consume. (4mks)

11. State three reasons for feeding livestock. (11/2mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 20

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

LIVE STOCK PRODUCTION (III) - SELECTION AND

BREEDING

KCSE PAST PAPERS.

1. (a) How does crossbreeding improve livestock production.

2. State six signs that are likely to be observed when a cow is on heat

3. State four disadvantages of natural mating as a method of breeding

in dairy cattle management.

4. Define the term out crossing in animal breeding.

5. The diagram below shows the reproductive system of a cow. Study it carefully and answer the

questions that follow.

a) i) Name the parts labeled A B and C.

ii) State the function of each of the parts labeled a and b

b) (i) Give two methods of mating in cattle

(ii) How long is the oestrus cycle in cattle?

6. Explain the term hybrid viqour as used in livestock production.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 21

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
7. Describe the factors a farmer should consider when selecting a young

female pig (Guilt) for breeding.

8.

(a) Define the following terms as used in livestock breeding.

(i) Inbreeding

(ii) Out crossing

(b) Outline three disadvantages of artificial insemination in cattle

management

(c) State three desirable characteristics to be considered when selecting a

heifer for milk production.

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION (IV) – REARING PRACTICES

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. Name two kinds of livestock which can be castrated using a rubber ring.

2. Give four reasons why bees may swarm from a hive.

3. Below is a diagram of a sheep with some parts labeled A, B, and C. Study

the diagram and answer the questions that follow.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 22

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
(i) What operation is usually carried out on the part labeled A during a sheep’ s early stages

of life?

(ii) Why is it necessary to carryout the operation in (i) above?

(iii) At what stage of sheep should the operation in (i) above be carried out?

(iv) Give two methods of carrying out the operation in (i) above,

(v) Which operation is usually carried out on part labeled B

(vi) What problem would occur if the operation in (V) above is not carried out?

(vii) How should the sheep beheld when shearing wool around part labeled C?

4. Why should smoke be used during harvesting of honey?

5. State four reasons for culling breeding sows.

6. (a) Define the term colostrums.

(c) Explain three qualities that make colostrums suitable for newly

born calves.

(d) Give three methods of feeding colostrums to a newly born calf.

6. Give six signs a cow would show just before parturition.

7. State four reasons for castrating male piglets.

8. Give two qualities of creep feed that makes it suitable for piglets.

9. State two reasons why it is necessary to place sugar syrup close to a

beehive.

10. State four routine management practices that should be carried out on a

lactating ewe.

11. State six management practices in fish rearing.

12 Give five signs, which indicate that a sow is about to furrow.

13. State four conditions which would make it necessary to feed bees.
FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 23
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
14. State four management practices that should be carried out during the

mating season in sheep.

15. Name four species of fresh water fish reared in Kenya.

FARM STRUCTURES.
1. The diagram below represents a calf pen. Study it to answer the questions

that follow.

(i) How high should the floor be above the ground level?

(ii) Why should the floor of the calf pen be raised?

(iii) Why should the parts of the pen marked p be open?

(iv) State three factors that should be considered in sitting a calf pen?

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 24

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
2 State two advantages of using wood in the construction of farm buildings

3. Describe the construction of a rabbit hutch under the following sub-

headings.

4. Give two reasons for treating timber to the used in construction of farm

buildings.

5. State one advantage and one disadvantage of using barbed wire instead of

plain wire for fencing paddocks.

6. State two functions of ventilation in an animal house.

7. a) One of the recommended ratio of mixing ingredients for making

Concrete block is 1:3:4, Name ingredients represented by the

numbers 1, 3 and 4 in the mixture.

b) If stronger concrete blocks were to be made, name the ingredient

that would be increased.

c) State three properties of concrete that make it suitable for

constructing farm buildings.

d) In addition to concrete, name three other materials that would be

required to construct the floor of milking shed.

8. State four features of a good maize granary.

9. State two reasons why maintenance of farm structures is important.

10. a) State any four factors that would influence the sitting of a calf pen.

b) State fur factors to consider when selecting materials for

constructing a calf pen.

c) Give four maintenance practices that should be carried out on a

permanent calf pen.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 25
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
11. Give two practices, other than use of preservatives, that can be carried

out on wooden fencing posts to make them last long.

12. State six features of an ideal calf pen.

13. Outline any four maintenance practices that should be carried out in a deep

litter poultry house.

14. Give two advantages of concrete blocks over timber as building materials.

15. a) State the uses of fences in farms.

b) What factors would be considered when sitting a farm structures.

16. a) State four advantages of a hedge in a farm.

17. State four advantages of using a Kenya Top Bar Hive over log hive.

18. Outline two routine maintenance practices carried out on water tanks.

19. a) Explain the uses of various hand tools in the construction a Kenya

Top Bar Hive

b) Describe the procedure of erecting wooden posts for fencing.

20. State three disadvantages of using steel in construction of farm buildings.

SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. Give one way through which check dams control soil erosion.

2. State two ways by which trees help in soil conservation.

3. State two reasons for carrying out soil conservation in a farm.

4. State two ways by which grass cover help to conserve soil.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 26

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
5. State two ways by which inorganic mulch help to conserve water in the

Soil.

6. Define the terms;

a) Forestation

b) Re-a forestation

7. Outline three factors, which may influence soil erosion.

WEEDS AND WEED CONTROL

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. State four reasons why timely weed control is advisable in crop

production.

2. Give four ways of controlling weeds in a maize field. (2mks)

3. PP2: Diagram & and H show weeds.

i) Identify the weeds. (2mks)

ii) State the economic importance of the weed shown in diagram G

(2mks)

iii) Why is it difficult to control weed in diagram G? (1mk)

4. State six disadvantages of weeds in crop production (3mks)

5 (i) State four factors that contribute to the competitive ability of

weeds. (2mks)

6. The diagram below represents a weed.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 27

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

i) Identify the weed (1/2 mrks)

ii) Classify the weed according to its life span. (1/2 mark)

iii) State one harmful effect of the weed to livestock. (1mk)

AGRICULTURE ECONOMICS (II)- LAND TENURE AND

REFORMS

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. State four disadvantages of communal land tenure system.

2. Give two ways in which land consolidation helps to improve farm

management.

3. State four objectives of land settlement which have been undertaken in

Kenya

4. Give two forms of collective land tenure system in

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 28

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

CROP PESTS AND DISEASES

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. PP2

Below is a diagram of a bird labeled A. Which is a crop pest?

i) Identify the pest

ii) State two ways by which the bird causes loss in crops.

iii) State four methods, which are used to control the pests.

2. The diagram labeled D below shows a Kale crop invested by a pest

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 29

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
i) Identify the pest.

ii) What damage does the pest cause the crop?

iii) State two methods of controlling the pest

3. Give two methods of controlling the pest?

4. State two cultural methods of controlling bollworms in a crop of cotton.

5. Give two ways of controlling bacteria blight in cotton.

6. State four factors that affect the effectiveness of a pesticide.

7. a) State two feeding habits of field insect pests.

b) State two cultural methods of pest control in stored grains.

8. Explain how various practices carried out in the field help to

control crop diseases.

9. State three cultural ways of controlling nematodes in a field of bananas.

10. a) Define the term” Economic Injury Level” of a crop.

b) Give two ways by which pesticides kills crop pests.

c) State four disadvantages of chemical pest control in crop

production.

11. Give three harmful effects of pests in crop production

12. State two cultural methods in controlling bollworms in a tomato crop.

13. Give two possible causes of swelling on the roots of bean plants.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 30

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

CROP PRODUCTION (VI) FIELD PRACTICES (II)

KCSE PAST PAPERS.

1. Name two field pests and two diseases of millet.

2. Why is it advisable to apply a straight nitrogenous fertilizer to a crop of

maize at a height of 30 – 45cm.

3. Which disease causes a mass of dark spores on the flowering parts of

maize?

4. State any four non – chemical methods of controlling storages

pests in a maize granary.

5. List four insect pests of maize in storage.

6. PP2 The diagram below labeled G, H, J and K shows different

stages of cotton fruit.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 31

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

i) Rearrange the label G, H, J, and K to show the correct sequence in

which the cotton fruit develops.

ii) What would be the effect of attack by cotton boll worms at

the stage labeled K?

iii) State two conditions that should be observed when harvesting to

ensure that cotton picked is of high quality.

iv) Name the two products which are obtained after processing cotton.

7. State four practices used to control maize streak in the field.

8. i) State tow cultural methods of controlling pests in an

established field of sorghum.

ii) List any four insect pests that attack maize in the field.

9. Give four ways of controlling weeds in a field of maize.

10. Give four control measures pf maize steak virus.

FORAGE CROPS

KCSE PAST PAPERS.

1. State two advantages of establishing a mixed grass legume pasture

instead of planting a pure grass pasture.

2. Give two disadvantages of overstocking in cattle production.

3. State two roles of additives in silage making.

4. a) Define the following term, (i) Under sowing (ii) Over sowing

b) State three methods of controlling weeds in a pure grass pasture.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 32
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
c) Give three benefits of top dressing in the management

of grass pastures.

5. State four ways by which a farmer can make efficient use of

a pasture crop.

6. Give four factors that determined the nutrient content of hay.

7. State four advantages of under sowing in pasture production

8. Describe field production of Napier elephant grass under the

following sub-headings.

i) Seedbed preparation

ii) Planting

iii) Fertilizer application

iv) Weed control

v) Utilization

9. (a) List three pasture legumes grown in medium altitude zones.

(b) Give three advantages of rotational grazing.

(c) State three ways by which overheating can be prevented in

the process of making silage.

10. State two advantages of proper stocking pasture management.

11. Explain the following terms as used in pasture establishment.

a) Seed Inoculation

b) Over sowing

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 33

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

LIVE STOCK HEALTH (III) – LIVESTOCK DISEASES

KCSE PAST PAPERS.

1. List six routes through which pathogens can enter the body of an animal.

2. State two methods of controlling rinder pest disease in cattle.

3. Give four symptoms of Newcastle disease in poultry.

4. State four predisposing factors to the occurrence of mastitis in dairy cattle.

5. State any three symptoms of mastitis in dairy cattle.

6. Name two notifiable diseases in cattle.

7. State two measures that should be taken to prevent an outbreak

of Newcastle disease in poultry.

8. PP2: The diagram below shows the head of a chicken having

symptoms of a poultry disease.

i) Identify the disease

ii) Give two reasons why the disease is of economic importance

to the farmer.

iii) State any tow methods of controlling the disease.

9. State four symptoms of foot rot in sheep.

10. Name the causal agents for each of the following disease,

i) Coccidiosis

ii) Black quarter

11. i) State two predisposing factors of foot rot in sheep.

ii) Give three symptoms of anaplasmosis disease.

12. Explain measures used to control livestock diseases. (12mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 34
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
13. Give two signs that would indicate that a cow has died of anthrax.

14. a) Name the causal organism of brucellosis in cows (1mks)

b) Give two symptoms of brucellosis in cows.

c) State four measures that should be taken to control brucellosis

in cattle.

15. Give three methods of controlling rinderpest in cattle.

16. Mention four symptoms of East Coast Fever in cattle.

17. a) State the cause of milk fever in dairy cows. (1mks)

b) Give four symptoms of milk fever in dairy cows.

c) State two methods of controlling milk fever.

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION – POULTRY

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. Give three methods of controlling cannibalism in a flock of layers

in deep litter system.

2. List four factors that should be considered when grading eggs

for marketing.

3. a) Describe the artificial rearing of layer chicks from day old

up to the end of brooding.

b) Describe the characteristics of a poor layer, which should be

considered during culling

4. Outline any four maintenance practices, which should be carried out

in a deep litter poultry house. (2mks)

5. Give four conditions that reduce the quality of eggs for hatching. (2mks)
FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 35
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
6. Give four measures that can control egg eating by hens in a deep

litter system (2mks)

7. a) State four observations on the behaviour of chicks which would

indicate that the temperature of a brooder is too high. (4mks)

b) Give four advantages of deep litter system of poultry keeping.

(4mks)

8. List six qualities of eggs suitable for incubation (3mks)

9. Describe the steps to be taken in maintaining hygiene in a

deep litter poultry house. (5mks)

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION (VI) – CATTLE

KCSE PAST PAPERS.

1. (a) The diagram below is a cross section of part of a cows adder

Label on the diagram the parts marked k, I, m and n. (2mks)

(b) i) What is milk let down? (1mk)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 36
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
ii) Which hormone stimulates milk let down. (1mk)

(c) State three practices which are carried out to control mastitis

in lactating cows.

2. Describe the management of a dairy heifer calf from birth until

it is mature for first service. (20mks)

3. a) Name any two characteristics of good quality whole milk. (1mk)

b) State three advantages of artificial calf rearing. (3mks)

4. State four qualities of clean milk. (2mks)

a) Define the term colostrums (1mk)

b) Explain three qualities that make colostrums suitable for newly

born calves. (3mks)

c) Give two methods if feeding colostrums to a newly born calf.

(1mk)

5. State any six practices that would ensure clean milk production (3mks)

6. State six marketing problems affecting dairy farming in Kenya. (3mks)

7. Describe the management of a dairy calf using artificial rearing method

from birth to weaning (20mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 37

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
FARM POWER AND MACHINERY

KCSE PAST PAPERS

1. (a) States four advantages of farm mechanization (2mks)

(b) Give the functions of each of the following parts of a mould board

plough. (4mks)

(i) Mould board (ii) Share

(iii) Frog (iv) Landslide.

(c) Give two daily maintenance practices that should be carried out on

a mould board plough. (2mks)

2. The diagram below is a tractor drawn implant hitched at the rear of the

tractor.

(i) Identify the implement (1mk)

(ii) What is the method of power transmission for operating the

implement? (1mk)

(iii) State three maintenance practices that should be carried out on the

implement. (3mks)

3. a) Compare the use of an ox-drawn mould board plough with that of a

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 38
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
tractor-drawn mould board plough. (9mks)

b) Describe the maintenance practices that should be carried out on an

ox-drawn mould board plough (6mks)

c) What are the advantages and disadvantages of using tractor hire

service farming instead of owning and using your own tractors.

(5mks)

4. a) State two reasons of applying oil and grease on a rotary mower.

(2mks)

b) State four maintenance practices required on a rotary mower

besides oiling and greasing. (2mks)

c) State four factors that a farmer should consider before buying a

tractor for use as the source of power on the farm. (2mks)

5. a) Give two uses of ox – drawn harrow (2mks)

b) Give two maintenance practices of a ox-drawn tine harrow. (2mks)

c) State two advantages of an ox- drawn harrow over tractor-drawn

harrow. (2mks)

6. Out line four maintenance practices of a disc harrow. (2mks)

7. a) State one method of increasing ploughing depth when using a disc

plough. (1mk)

b) State two reasons for maintaining a disc plough, (2mks)

c) State three advantages of farm mechanization. (3mks)

8. a) State two functions of a coulter in a mould board plough. (2mks)

b) Give three maintenance practices carried out on an 0x-drawn

trailer. (3mks)
FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 39
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
9. a) State two problems associated with tractor hire service that farmers

encounter. (1mk)

b) List four implements used to carry out secondary cultivation.

(2mks)

10. a) State one condition under which a farmer would prefer to use an

ox-cart instead of a tractor-drawn trailer.

b) Give three maintenance practices carried out on an ox-plough.

AGRICULTURE ECONOMIC III- PRODUCTION ECONOMICS

1 (a) State four ways of improving the labour productivity of farm

labour. (2mks)

(b) What is increasing returns in a production? (1mk)

(c) What are three classifications of farm credits according to the

repayment periods? (I ½ mks)

2. a) Define the term opportunity cost as used in economics. (1mk)

b) What is working capital in a farming situation (1mk)

c) Define the term utility of a commodity as used in agriculture

economics. (1mk)

3. (a) State any two sources of capital for farming

(b) Explain the advantages of budgeting in farm business. (5mks)

4. a) Explain the difference between fixed costs and variable costs in

farming.

b) Give four variable costs in the production of coffee in an

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 40
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
established field of coffee. (2mks)

c) Give 3 advantages of planning in a farm business. (3mks)

5. Give two uses of gross margin analysis in farm business.

6. a) Below is a graphical representation of The law of

admonishing returns.

a) Explain what happens in each of the Zones marked I, II and III in

relation to output. (3mks)

b) Which of the three is a rational zone of production? (1mks)

c) State any three precautions a potatoes farmer would take to minimize risks in the

production of potatoes. (2mks)

7. a) State three ways of improving labour productivity in a farm.

b) Give two changes that would indicate improvement of labour

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 41
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
efficiency in farm. (2mks)

c) State two ways of determining the rate of payment of casual

labour in a farm. (3mks)

8. a) State four factors that influence the supply of casual labour

in a farm. (2mks)

b) State six ways by which a farmer can risk and uncertainties.

c) State six reasons why agriculture is important in Kenya

economy. (3mks)

9. State 2 reasons for choosing the right enterprise combination in

farming business. (1mks)

10 a) Give four examples of joint products in livestock production.

b) List four variable inputs in poultry production.

c) A farmer can combine dairy meal and home made in

Dairy meal (kg) Home made feed (kg) Marginal rate of substitution

1 48 O

2 39 V

3 32 7

4 27 W

5 23 4

6 21 X

7 20 1

8 19 y

i) Given the above information, calculate the marginal rate of substitution and give

values of V, W, X and X (4mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 42
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
ii) Given that the pride of dairy meal is Ksh. 8.00 per kilogram and that of homemade

feeds in Ksh. 2.00 per kilogram, calculate the least cost combination.

(1mks)

11. a) Name three – product relationship in agriculture economics.

b) Explain the following terms as used in agriculture economics.

i) Production function

ii) Equi– marginal returns.

12. Name five sources of agriculture credit in Kenya (1 ½ mks)

13. Give two examples in each case of the following costs incurred in the

production of milk.

a) Variable costs (1mk)

b) Fixed costs (1mks)

14. a) Differentiate between partial budget and complete budget. (2mks)

b) Explain how factors may adjust uncertain rules in farming

business (2mks)

The cost of fertilizer is Kshs. 1500 per unit and the price of maize in

Ksh. 1200 per bag.

i) At what unit of fertilizer input should the farmer be advised to stop

applying any more fertilizer to the maize.

ii) Give two reasons for your answer in b (i) above.

iii) Calculate the marginal return at the point of optimum production.

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 43

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS

(FARM ACCOUNTS)

1. a) List four types of financial books farmers should

keep. (2mks)

b) State two uses of a balance sheet. (2 mks)

2. Study the following information which was extracted from

Mr. Rambo’ s farm record on 31 -12 – 95 and answer the

question below.

Kshs.

Loans payable to bank 300,000

Five milking cows 250,000

400 layers 80,000

20 goats 30,000

Debts payable to cooperative 20,000

Buildings and structures 600,000

Bonus payable to workers 19,000

Cattle feed in store 10,000

Animal drugs in store 4,000

Debts receivable 18,000

Breakages to repair 30,000

I cash at hand 20,000

I Cash in bank 30,000

Spray equipment 12,000

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 44

 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
Prepare a balance sheet for Rambo’ s farm using the information above 7 mks

3. a) Explain the following terms as used in farm account.

i) Cash account

ii) Ledger

iii) Balance sheet

iv) Purchase order.

Name two types of inventories used in farm accounts. (2mks)

4. On 5 – 1- 2001 Tamu farm purchased on credit the following items

from a K. F. A shop.

 20 bags of dairy meal, 70kg each @ sh. 1,100 per bag.

 16 bags of bran, 70kg each @ sh. 700 per bag.

 18 bags of D.S.P fertilizer, 50kg each @ sh. 1,500 per bag.

 45 bags of seed maize, each 2kg @ Ksh. 300 per bag.

 8 shearing knives (medium size) @ sh. 300 per knife.

i) Prepare the purchase order that Tamu farm made to K.F.A. (6mks)

ii) Calculate the value of each item purchased and the total value of the order. (3mks)

5. The following accounts information is from Mrs. Mbuta’ s farm

for the year ended 31 – 12 – 2003.

Opening valuation Ksh. 6,0007/=

Paid wages Ksh. 5000/=

Bought equipment worth Ksh. 8,000/=

Bought pig feeds worth Ksh. 4,000/=

Sold mature pigs worth Ksh. 7,000/=

Bought drugs worth Ksh. 3,200/=

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 45
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
Sold maize worth Ksh. 3,000/=

Closing valuation Ksh. 4,000/=

i) Using the information above, prepare a profit and loss account for Mrs. Mbuta’ s

farm.

ii) From the calculations in (i) above, state whether Mrs. Mbuta made a profit or a

loss. (1mk)

6. a) What is opening valuation as used in farm account? (1mks)

b) State the use of each of the following financial documents (3mks)

i) Cash receipt

ii) Purchase order.

Mi) Delivery note.

AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS

(AGRICULTURAL MARKETING AND ORGANIZATION)

1. a) What is the minimum number of people required to form

a co-operative society? (1mks)

b) State four factors that may influence the supply of a commodity

in a market? (4mks)

c) State four problems that farmers are likely to face when

marketing their produce. (4mks)

d) Name two marketing organizations for coffee in Kenya. (1mk)

2. a) Differentiate between market and marketing? (2mks)

b) What is an imperfect market? (1mk)

c) How will the price of mangoes in the short run be affected if

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 46
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com
the quantity of mangoes supplied in a market is increased

d) State any four problems a dairy farmer is likely to

face in marketing milk. (2mks)

3. a) State the law of demand. (1mk)

b) State four factors that determine the demand of a commodity

in a free market economy. (4mks)

c) What is elasticity of demand for a commodity? (1mk)

d) Explain the functions of agricultural marketing boards. (15 mks)

4. a) Give four benefits a farmer would derive from being a member

of a dairy co-operative society. (2mks)

5. a) Explain the problems farmers face in marketing of

agricultural produce. (9mks)

b) Describe the various agencies and institutions involved

in marketing of a agricultural produce. (5mks)

6. a) State six factors that influence demand for a commodity

in a market. (3mks)

7. a) Given that at a price of Ksh. 100 per bag, 20 bags of maize are

demanded, but when the price changes to Ksh.800 per bag, 22 bags of are

demanded. Calculate the elasticity of demand. Show your working.

(3mks)

8. a) Describe the functions of agricultural marketing (10mks)

b) Explain the role of agricultural co-operatives in Kenya. (10mks)

9. a) State six problems experienced by farmers in marketing

agricultural produce. (3mks)

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 47
 mwalimuepublishers@gmail.com

FOR MARKING SCHEMES

CALL 0705525657

FOR MORE E-RESOURCES CALL: 0705525657/0770195807 48