LC Ag Science case studies
LC Ag Science · Put your knowledge to work in context.
Leaving Certificate Agricultural Science is a senior-cycle subject examined in Ireland for students who want a science-based grounding in farming, agri-food and natural resource management. It suits candidates considering agriculture, veterinary, food science, environmental or land-based careers, and also those from farming backgrounds who want their practical knowledge recognised and formalised. The course blends theory with hands-on work: soil formation and fertility, plant and animal biology, crop husbandry, livestock nutrition, breeding, health and welfare, farm sustainability, and the business side of farming. A practical or investigative coursework element rewards consistent laboratory and field work rather than last-minute cramming. The LC Ag Science case studies are 5 cases and about 3,296 words.
1Split-field fertiliser trial on grassland
On a 6 ha grassland field, a student compares two nitrogen fertilisers: treated urea (A) and calcium ammonium nitrate (B), both applied on 1 April at 30 kg N/ha. The field is split into two 3 ha blocks along a natural slope.
707 words, about 4 min2Compaction or acidity in a direct-drilled clay loam
A 16 ha field of clay loam has grown continuous winter barley for six years and has been direct drilled for the last three. In February, standing water is visible in the wheel tracks and in a band across the middle of the field.
706 words, about 4 min3Harvest decision for high-moisture spring barley
A 22 ha crop of spring barley is ready to harvest. Grain moisture is 22%, and the combine and grain dryer are booked.
643 words, about 3 min4Late-pregnancy feeding in a twin-bearing ewe flock
A flock of 90 mature ewes is six weeks from lambing. Scanning shows 150% lambing: 45 singles and 45 twins.
607 words, about 3 min5Slurry spreading plan beside a stream
A 55 ha dairy farm milks 130 cows and has slurry storage for 14 weeks. The yard drains to a stream that runs along the lower boundary; the stream is also a source of drinking water for a neighbour's cattle.
633 words, about 3 min