LC Ag Science study guide
LC Ag Science · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
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 LC Ag Science study guide has 8 sections and about 2,235 words.
01Scientific Practices and Experimental Skills in Agricultural Science
Scientific practices and experimental skills is the domain that tests whether you can turn an agricultural question into a fair, safe investigation and interpret the evidence. Expect questions on hypotheses, variables, controls, sampling, measurement, data presentation and evaluation of reliability and validity.
305 words, about 2 min02Soils: Formation, Classification and Properties
Soils tests formation, classification and the physical, chemical and biological properties that control drainage, nutrient supply and productivity. Soil forms from parent material under climate, organisms, relief and time; these factors explain texture, depth and drainage.
286 words, about 1 min03Plant and Animal Biology Applied to Agriculture
Plant and animal biology applied to agriculture tests how anatomy and physiology explain growth, reproduction, lactation, digestion and response to management. Photosynthesis depends on light, CO2, water, chlorophyll and temperature; stomata balance CO2 uptake against water loss.
281 words, about 1 min04Crops: Establishment, Nutrition, Protection and Harvesting
Crops tests establishment, nutrition, protection and harvesting decisions across tillage and grassland crops, including calculations and integrated management. A fine, firm seedbed with adequate moisture and temperature supports germination; sowing depth and seed rate must suit the crop and seed size.
283 words, about 1 min05Animal Production: Nutrition, Breeding, Health and Welfare
Animal production tests nutrition, breeding, health and welfare as linked management systems for cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry. Rations must supply water, energy, protein, minerals and vitamins in the right proportions; intake and dry matter matter as much as percentage composition.
271 words, about 1 min06Farm Environment, Sustainability and Natural Resource Management
Farm environment, sustainability and natural resource management tests nutrient cycling, emissions, water quality, biodiversity and how farming systems can reduce harm while remaining productive. Nitrogen and phosphorus move through soil, water and air; losses cause eutrophication, ammonia emission and greenhouse gases.
277 words, about 1 min07Agricultural Economics, Farm Business and Agri-Food Systems
Agricultural economics, farm business and agri-food systems tests costs, margins, budgeting, market signals and the chain from farm gate to consumer. Variable costs change with output; fixed costs remain over the production period.
257 words, about 1 min08Coursework Assessment: Practical Agricultural Investigations
Coursework assessment: practical agricultural investigations tests your ability to plan, carry out, record, analyse and evaluate a real agricultural investigation. Start with a clear aim and testable hypothesis linked to agricultural science.
275 words, about 1 min