Leaving Certificate agricultural science involves the study of the science and technology underlying the principles and practices of agriculture. It aims to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes that promote the sustainability of agricultural resources, and places emphasis on the managed use of these resources. Plants and animal types associated with agriculture are studied, and investigations are undertaken into such aspects as soil, ecology, plant and animal physiology, farm crops, farming practices, genetics and microbiology.

Assessment of the subject is divided into
Coursework 25% (100 marks)
Written paper 75% (300 marks)

The coursework assessment of Leaving Certificate Agricultural Science includes:

▪ a portfolio of specified practical activities
▪ an Individual Investigative Study.

Students must complete the range of specified practical activities set out in the learning outcomes of the specification, including laboratory and field investigations, and other appropriate activities. Over the two years of the course, each student will be required to maintain a portfolio in which a record of all activities is kept. The activities are planned and carried out in groups and reported on individually.. The reports will not be externally assessed but must be available for inspection and retained until the end of the assessment process.

Individual Investigative Study

In addition to the specified practical activities, each student must complete an Individual Investigative Study during the course, through which a topic of agricultural significance is investigated in greater depth. This study, incorporating any appropriate research, will be based on a thematic brief which is set by the SEC at the commencement of the course for each examination cohort. As part of their investigation students gather and process data, evaluate evidence, and develop arguments. They read about current research and developments in science and relate their learning to the applications and implications of science for society and the environment. Students prepare and present a scientific communication describing the research question, methodology, results and conclusions. The report on these practical activities are directly assessed by the State Examinations Commission. In addition, some of the skills developed during the individual investigative study will also be assessed in the written examination.

Useful sites
Study Clix Leaving Cert Agri Science Project Everything You Need To Know