Plant and Soil Science

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
L/507/0572
Credits:
6
Guided learning hours:
48 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of Evidence

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand the process of photosynthesis.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1
    Describe the basic process of photosynthesis and the factors that affect its rate and implications for plant growth
2

Understand transpiration in plants.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1
    Describe the process of transpiration and its importance to the plant.
3

Understand the importance of the major mineral nutrients and trace elements to plant growth.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1
    Describe the role of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and magnesium in plant growth and how deficiencies can be identified and rectified.
4

Understand the terms soil texture and soil profile.

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1
    State the information provided by a soil profile and describe how it can be used.
  • 4.2
    Define the term soil texture.
  • 4.3
    Describe the characteristics of clay, sandy and silty soils
5

Know about soil structure.

Assessment Criteria

  • 5.1
    Describe three methods for the improvement of soil structure.
6

Understand how to assess soil toxicity.

Assessment Criteria

  • 6.1
    Describe tests which can be used to determine the level of soil toxicity.
  • 6.2
    Describe how information on soil contamination in the local area can be obtained.
7

Understand the use of bulky organic material.

Assessment Criteria

  • 7.1
    Define the term bulky organic material
  • 7.2
    Name three bulky organic materials that can be used to improve soil structure.
8

Understand the relationship between soil pH and plant growth.

Assessment Criteria

  • 8.1
    Define soil pH and describe its effect on nutrient availability.
  • 8.2
    Describe how soil pH can be adjusted.
  • 8.3
    Describe the meaning of the terms calcifuge and calcicole and state two examples of each.