Project Title
Soil Erosion Prevention at Zimunya High School
Research Questions
1. What are the causes of soil erosion?
2. What are the effects of soil erosion on the environment and agriculture?
3. How can soil erosion be prevented at Zimunya High School?
Definitions of Key Terms
1. _Soil Erosion_: The wearing away of the topsoil by natural forces like wind and water.
2. _Sustainable Agriculture_: Farming practices that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and efficient
water use.
Stage 1: Problem Identification
_Problem Description_
Soil erosion is a significant problem at Zimunya High School, affecting the school's agricultural projects
and the surrounding environment.
_Statement of Intent_
To design and implement a sustainable agricultural system that prevents soil erosion at Zimunya High
School.
_Design Specifications_
1. Identify the causes of soil erosion at Zimunya High School.
2. Explain the effects of soil erosion on the environment and agriculture.
3. Propose functional prevention methods for soil erosion.
Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas
_Current Situation_
Soil erosion is a significant problem at Zimunya High School, affecting the school's agricultural projects
and the surrounding environment.
_Causes of Soil Erosion_
1. Heavy rainfall
2. Poor farming practices
3. Lack of vegetation cover
4. Soil compaction
5. Inadequate drainage
_Effects of Soil Erosion_
1. Loss of fertile soil
2. Reduced crop yields
3. Increased sedimentation in waterways
4. Decreased biodiversity
5. Negative impacts on local ecosystems
_Existing Solutions_
1. Planting trees and vegetation to hold the soil together.
2. Building terraces to slow down water flow.
3. Using cover crops to protect the soil.
4. Fencing grazing areas to prevent overgrazing.
5. Using mulch to protect the soil.
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
_Practical Solutions_
1. Creating a school garden using sustainable agriculture practices.
2. Implementing a tree-planting program.
3. Building a rainwater harvesting system.
4. Creating a composting program.
5. Implementing a soil conservation program.
Stage 4: Development of Ideas
_Selected Idea_
Creating a school garden using sustainable agriculture practices.
_Refined Idea_
1. Conducting a soil test to determine the soil type and pH.
2. Designing a garden layout that incorporates crop rotation and companion planting.
3. Building raised beds using eco-friendly materials.
4. Implementing a drip irrigation system.
5. Creating a composting program to provide nutrient-rich soil amendments.
_Activities_
1. Researching sustainable agriculture practices.
2. Designing a garden layout.
3. Building raised beds.
4. Implementing a drip irrigation system.
5. Creating a composting program.
_Steps to Create a Prototype_
1. Conducting a site analysis to determine the best location for the garden.
2. Designing a garden layout that incorporates crop rotation and companion planting.
3. Building raised beds using eco-friendly materials.
4. Implementing a drip irrigation system.
5. Creating a composting program to provide nutrient-rich soil amendments.
_Eco-Friendly Materials Needed_
1. Recycled wood for raised beds.
2. Bamboo for trellises.
3. Compost bins made from recycled plastic.
4. Drip irrigation system made from eco-friendly materials.
5. Mulch made from organic materials.
Stage 5: Presentation of Results
_Final Solution_
A model or prototype of a sustainable agricultural system that prevents soil erosion.
_Presentation_
A presentation of the final solution, including its design, implementation plan, and benefits to the school
and community.
Stage 6: Evaluation and Recommendations
_Evaluation_
An evaluation of the final solution, including its effectiveness in preventing soil erosion and its potential
for implementation in real-world scenarios.
_Recommendations_
Recommendations for further improvement of the solution, including potential modifications and future
research directions.
_Presentation of Results_
A presentation of the final solution, including its design, implementation plan, and benefits to the school
and community.
