Grade 9 Pretechnical Studies Notes-1
Grade 9 Pretechnical Studies Notes-1
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STRAND ONE: FOUNDATION OF PRE-TECHNICAL STUDIES.
SUB-STRAND: SAFETY ON RAISED PLATFORMS.
A raised platform in the workplace is any elevated surface or
structure where workers stand to perform tasks.
It could be something like a ladder, scaffold, or lift that helps
them reach higher areas safely.
Examples or Types of Raised platforms; ladders, trestles
steps, stands mobile raised platforms, work benches and
ramps.
2.Trestles:
Used to support work surfaces or planks for tasks like painting or
construction, giving workers a stable elevated surface.
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3.Steps:
Offers a small, portable platform for reaching slightly elevated
areas, useful for quick, short tasks.
4.Ramps:
Allows easy access for people or equipment to move between
different levels, often used for loading and unloading.
5.Stands:
Provides a stable, elevated support for tools, equipment,
or materials, often adjustable to different heights.
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6.Work Benches:
Serves as an elevated surface for performing tasks like
assembling, cutting, or working with materials at a comfortable
height.
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The biggest risk is falling off the platform. This can lead to
serious injuries or even death.
2. Slips and Trips:
Raised platforms can become slippery due to rain, oil, or
loose objects, increasing the risk of losing balance.
3. Equipment or Tools Falling:
Tools or materials can fall off the platform, possibly injuring
people below.
4. Platform Collapse:
If the platform is overloaded or not set up properly, it can
collapse, putting everyone on it in danger.
5. Electrocution:
If the platform is near power lines, there is a risk of electric
shock or electrocution.
6. Weather-Related Risks:
Strong winds, rain, or ice can make working on raised
platforms more dangerous by affecting balance and
stability.
7. Unstable Surface:
If the ground or surface where the platform is set up is
uneven or soft, it can shift or tip, increasing the chance of
accidents.
8. Lack of Proper Guardrails:
Without guardrails or safety barriers, there’s a higher
chance of falling off the edges of the platform.
9. Limited Visibility:
Poor lighting, fog, or dust can make it harder to see,
increasing the chances of missteps or slips.
10.Fatigue:
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Working at heights can be physically and mentally tiring,
which might lead to mistakes or slower reactions to
hazards.
11.Improper Use of Safety Gear:
If workers don’t wear harnesses correctly or use the wrong
equipment, the effectiveness of safety measures is
reduced.
12.Overcrowding:
Too many people on a small platform can make it unstable,
increasing the risk of falls or tipping.
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5.Use Guardrails:
Install guardrails or safety barriers on raised platforms to
prevent falls.
6.Training:
Make sure everyone using the platform has proper training
on how to use it safely.
7.Watch Out for Weather Conditions:
Avoid working on raised platforms during strong winds or
rain, as this can make the platform more dangerous.
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SUB-STRAND 2.
HANDLING HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES.
Hazardous Substances: These are materials that can cause
harm to people, animals, or the environment if not handled
carefully. They may be poisonous, flammable, or corrosive.
Poisonous: Substances that can make you sick or even be
deadly if you eat, drink, breathe in, or touch them.
Examples include pesticides or certain chemicals used in
cleaning.
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Flammable: These are substances that can easily catch fire
if exposed to heat or a spark. Examples include gasoline,
alcohol, and paint thinners.
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Corrosive: These are substances that can cause damage by
wearing away or "eating through" materials, including skin
or metal. Examples include strong acids like battery acid
and bleach.
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Hazardous Substances Found in the Environment:
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Safe Ways to Handle Hazardous Substances
1.Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves, masks, goggles, or even
aprons when handling hazardous substances to avoid skin
contact or inhalation.
2.Proper Storage: Keep hazardous materials in clearly labeled,
sealed containers and store them in a cool, dry place, away from
sunlight and sources of heat.
3.Avoid Mixing Chemicals: Some substances, like bleach and
ammonia, create toxic fumes when mixed, so it’s essential to
keep them separate.
4.Follow Disposal Instructions: Dispose of hazardous waste
according to local guidelines to prevent contamination of soil or
water. Never pour chemicals down the drain unless it’s safe to
do so.
5.Ventilate When Using Indoors: Open windows or doors to allow
fresh air to circulate, especially when using flammable or strong-
smelling products.
6.Use Only in Well-Ventilated Areas: When handling substances
that release fumes, work outdoors if possible or in areas with
good airflow.
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2.Environmental Protection:
Correctly storing and disposing of hazardous substances
prevents pollution of air, soil, and water, protecting wildlife
and plant life.
3.Prevents Accidents and Fires:
Following safety measures reduces the risk of accidental
fires or chemical reactions that could harm people and
property.
4.Legal Compliance:
Observing safety rules helps individuals and companies
follow laws designed to protect people and the
environment from harm.
5.Promotes Community Safety:
When everyone follows safety guidelines, it ensures that
hazardous substances do not pose risks to the larger
community.
Self-Exploration:
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This means discovering your own interests, strengths, and
what you enjoy doing. It’s learning about yourself to make
better choices for your future.
Career Development:
This is the process of learning and planning for a job or
career that fits your skills and interests.
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It includes studying, getting experience, and setting career
goals.
TALENT ABILITY/SKILL
Gift of God. Acquired and developed
Possessed by few people. Many people can possess it
through learning.
Requires recognition. Requires development.
Requires guidance and Requires training.
coaching.
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4.Get Training or Education: Take courses, workshops, or extra
classes to learn more about your area of interest.
5.Find a Supportive Community: Join groups or clubs where
people have similar interests. This helps you learn from others
and stay motivated.
6.Observing and identifying a talent.
7.Providing resources to cultivate interests on talents and
abilities.
2.Social Science:
If you enjoy helping people, solving social issues, or
studying human behavior, social sciences might be for you.
Talents like empathy, communication, and critical thinking
are useful in careers like teaching, psychology, law, and
social work.
3.Creative Arts:
If you love drawing, acting, singing, or creating things,
creative arts could be a good pathway. Talents in artistic
expression, imagination, and storytelling can lead to
careers in music, art, drama, and media.
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Career Opportunities Related to Talents and Abilities
1.Musical Talent: Careers like musician, music teacher, sound
engineer.
2.Artistic Talent: Careers like artist, graphic designer, animator,
or interior designer.
3.Mathematical Ability: Careers like accountant, data analyst,
engineer.
4.Communication Skills: Careers in journalism, teaching,
marketing, or law.
5.Athletic Skills: Careers as an athlete, coach, personal trainer,
or sports journalist.
Unethical Practices:
Involves using talents in dishonest or unfair ways, such as
cheating, copying others’ work, or misusing skills to harm
others.
For instance, using one’s communication skills to spread
false information.
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1.Honesty: Using your abilities truthfully and not cheating or
exaggerating your skills.
2.Respect for Others: Acknowledging others’ efforts and
collaborating fairly.
3.Integrity: Following rules and using your talent to help others
or make a positive impact.
4.Accountability: Taking responsibility for your actions and
improving your skills through hard work.
Unethical Practices:
1.Cheating or Plagiarism: Copying others’ work and claiming it
as your own.
2.Exploitation: Taking advantage of others for personal gain, like
underpaying someone for their talent.
3.Spreading Misinformation: Using skills like writing or speaking
to spread false or harmful information.
4.Harmful Use: Using talents in ways that harm others, such as
creating dangerous products or using knowledge of technology
for hacking.
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STRAND: COMMUNICATION IN PRE-TECHNICAL STUDIES.
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Characteristics of Oblique Drawing in Technical Fields:
1.Front View: The front of the object is drawn in its actual shape
and size, showing all details clearly.
2.Angle: The other views are drawn at an angle to give the
object depth, commonly 45 degrees.
3.Uneven Scale: The depth dimension can be drawn using full
size (cavalier projection) or half size (cabinet projection), which
affects how realistic the drawing looks.
4.Straight Lines: Straight lines are used to represent edges,
making it easier to visualize and create the object in real life.
5.Simple to Understand: Oblique projection is simpler to draw
compared to other 3D projection methods like perspective,
making it easy to understand and use for quick sketches.
Steps for Drawing Shaped Blocks in Oblique Projection:
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i. Step 1: Draw the front view of the object as it appears in
real life. This is drawn to scale.
ii. Step 2: From the edges of the front view, draw lines at the
chosen angle (typically 45 degrees) to represent the depth.
iii. Step 3: Measure and mark the depth along the angled
lines. The depth can be full scale (cavalier) or reduced
(cabinet).
iv. Step 4: Complete the shape by drawing the final back
edges of the object, ensuring all lines are connected
properly.
v. Step 5: Add any necessary details like dimensions or text
labels.
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Cavalier Projection:
The depth is drawn at full scale.
This gives a more exaggerated, less realistic look because
the depth appears longer than in real life.
Cabinet Projection:
The depth is drawn at half the scale of the front view.
This creates a more realistic appearance of the object, as
the depth is less exaggerated.
Uses of Oblique Projection in Society:
1.Product Design: Oblique projection is used to visualize
products or machines in 3D for design and manufacturing
purposes.
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2.Architecture: Architects use oblique projection to sketch
buildings and their features, such as windows and doors, to
quickly convey their designs.
3.Engineering: Engineers use oblique projection to represent
parts of machines or structures to understand their shape and
construction.
4.Education: Oblique projections help students and learners
understand how 3D objects look by simplifying complex shapes
and structures.
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Architects use oblique projections to show buildings,
rooms, or layouts in a simplified 3D format, which helps in
visualizing how the structure looks from different angles.
4.Illustrating Assembly Instructions:
Oblique drawings are often used in manuals to show how
parts fit together, giving a clear view of the front and depth
of the objects.
5.Education:
In educational settings, oblique projection is used to teach
students how to visualize and understand 3D shapes on a
2D surface.
It's easier to create and interpret than other 3D techniques
like perspective drawings.
6.Cartography:
Oblique drawings can be used in map-making or land
surveys to represent topography, showing both the ground
level and elevation changes.
VISUAL PROGRAMMING.
Meaning of Visual Programming:
Visual programming is a type of programming where you
create software by manipulating graphical elements
instead of writing lines of code.
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It uses pictures, icons, and diagrams to represent actions
or operations.
For example, you can connect blocks that represent
different tasks to build a program, similar to solving a
puzzle.
1.Education:
It’s used to teach coding to beginners or kids, as it
simplifies programming concepts with drag-and-drop
features.
Programs like Scratch help students learn programming
logic without writing code.
2.Game Development:
Visual programming tools allow game designers to create
interactive elements and simple games without needing to
write complex code.
Tools like Unity's visual scripting help in creating game
mechanics visually.
3.Automation:
In business or industries, visual programming helps
automate tasks.
Software like Microsoft Power Automate allows users to
create workflows using visual blocks to automate
processes like data entry or email management.
4.Data Analysis:
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Software like Tableau or KNIME uses visual programming to
help users analyze data and create reports without needing
to write code, making it easier to work with data.
5.Robotics:
Visual programming is often used in robotics for controlling
robots and devices.
It allows users to control robotic systems using a flowchart-
like interface, which is easier than traditional coding.
How to Develop an Application Using Visual Programming
Software:
To develop an application using visual programming
software, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose a Visual Programming Tool: Select a
software tool like Scratch, Blockly, or Node-RED.
Step 2: Define Your Goal: Decide what you want your
application to do. For example, it could be a simple game,
a website, or an automation task.
Step 3: Design the Flow: Use the drag-and-drop blocks or
icons to design the flow of your program. Each block
represents a function or action.
Step 4: Connect the Blocks: Link the blocks in the correct
order to represent the logical sequence of tasks or actions.
Step 5: Test Your Program: Run the program to see if it
works as expected. You can tweak or add more blocks to
improve functionality.
Step 6: Finalize and Deploy: Once the application works as
intended, you can deploy it or share it with others.
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Visual programming is used in several ways in daily life:
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STRAND: MATERIALS FOR PRODUCTION.
SUB-STRAND: WOOD.
Definition of Wood:
Wood is a natural material that comes from trees. It is
made up of cells and fibers, which help trees stand up
straight and grow tall.
Wood is used for building, making furniture, and many
other things.
Types of Wood:
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1. Hardwood: Comes from trees that have broad leaves, like
oak, mahogany, and teak.
2. Softwood: Comes from trees that have needles and cones,
like pine, cedar, and fir.
Examples of Hard and Softwood:
Hardwood: Oak, Mahogany, Teak
Softwood: Pine, Cedar, Fir
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Physical Characteristics of Hardwood.
1.Denser: Hardwoods are heavier and harder.
2.Durable: They last longer and are strong.
3.Grain patterns: Usually have intricate grain designs.
2.Seasoning:
This is the process of drying the wood to remove moisture.
Fresh wood (green wood) can be too wet, which makes it
weak or likely to crack.
Seasoning helps the wood last longer and be easier to work
with.
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a. Air seasoning: Allowing wood to dry in the open air.
b. Kiln seasoning: Using a heated oven to speed up the drying
process.
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3. Paper: Wood pulp is used to make paper.
4. Fuels: Wood can be burned for cooking or heating.
5. Crafts: Wood is used for carving statues, toys, and
decorative items.
6. Musical Instruments.
Many musical instruments, such as pianos, violins,
guitars, and drums, are made from wood.
Its resonance and sound qualities make it an ideal
material for producing rich, clear tones.
7. Packaging.
Wood is used to make boxes, crates, and pallets for
storing and shipping goods.
Wooden packaging is strong and provides protection for
fragile items during transport.
8. Sporting Goods.
Wood is used in making various sports equipment like
baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks, and even ski
poles.
Its balance of strength and weight makes it ideal for these
items.
9. Garden Tools.
Many garden tools, such as rake handles, shovel
handles, and hoe handles, are made from wood because
it is lightweight yet sturdy.
10. Household Items.
Items like cutting boards, wooden spoons, serving trays,
bowls, and furniture are made from wood.
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They are both functional and aesthetically pleasing in
daily use.
11. Toys.
Wooden toys, such as puzzles, blocks, and dolls, are
safe, durable, and environmentally friendly.
They are often preferred for young children as they are
non-toxic and long-lasting.
12. Shelving and Storage.
Wood is often used for shelves, cabinets, and storage
units.
It provides a strong and attractive way to organize
homes and offices.
13. Windows and Doors.
Wood is used to make window frames, doors, and
shutters due to its durability and insulating properties.
14. Flooring.
Hardwood floors are popular for their strength, beauty,
and long-lasting nature.
Wood is often used for flooring in homes, offices, and
public spaces.
15. Decorative Items.
Wood is commonly used for making picture frames,
mirrors, and other decorative home accessories.
It brings a natural look to the interior design.
16. Fencing.
Wooden fences are widely used to enclose properties.
Wood’s natural strength and ability to withstand outdoor
conditions make it a good material for fences.
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17. Construction Forms and Shoring(process of supporting
building).
In construction, wood is used for temporary structures
like formwork and shoring to support concrete during
the building process.
18. Fireplaces and Mantels.
Wooden mantels are commonly found around fireplaces,
adding warmth and charm to living spaces.
Firewood is also essential for heating and cooking.
19. Baskets and Wickerwork.
Wood, especially thin, flexible pieces, is used in weaving
baskets and other woven items for storage and
decoration.
20. Wooden Utensils.
Wooden spoons, spatulas, and ladles are commonly
used in cooking because they do not scratch cookware
and are gentle on non-stick surfaces.
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Wood is widely used in construction for building houses,
bridges, and other structures.
It is strong, durable, and an excellent material for creating
walls, floors, and roofs.
2. Furniture.
Most furniture, such as tables, chairs, cabinets, and beds,
is made from wood.
It is valued for its beauty, variety of textures, and the
ability to be easily shaped.
3. Sustainable Resource.
Wood is renewable and can be replenished if harvested
sustainably.
Trees can be replanted, and wood products can be
recycled, making it an eco-friendly material compared to
other building materials like plastic or metal.
4. Paper Production.
Wood is used to make paper, which is essential for writing,
printing, packaging, and even cleaning.
Without wood, we wouldn't have paper for books,
newspapers, or notebooks.
5. Fuel.
Wood is used as a source of energy in the form of firewood.
It has been a traditional and reliable source of heating and
cooking fuel, especially in rural areas.
6. Crafts and Art.
Wood is commonly used for making various art pieces,
sculptures, toys, and household items.
Its natural beauty and ease of carving make it perfect for
crafting.
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7. Transportation.
Wooden materials are used in making vehicles like canoes,
boats, and even parts of vehicles like dashboards.
Wood’s lightness and strength make it suitable for some
transportation needs.
8. Insulation.
Wood has natural insulating properties, which help keep
homes warm in winter and cool in summer, making it an
effective material for energy conservation.
9. Health Benefits
Wooden items, such as beds, desks, and shelves,
contribute to better indoor air quality compared to
synthetic materials, making wood a healthier option for
home furnishings.
10. Cultural and Traditional Importance.
Wood has cultural significance in many communities,
where it is used in rituals, temples, traditional artifacts, and
ceremonial items, playing a key role in preserving
traditions.
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HANDLING WASTE MATERIALS.
What are waste materials in the environment?
Waste materials are things that people no longer need or
use, and they are thrown away.
These materials can harm the environment if not handled
properly.
They include items like plastic, food scraps, chemicals, and
old electronics that end up in landfills, oceans, or other
places in nature.
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b.Food waste: Leftover food, peels, and scraps.
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b. Paper waste: Newspapers, magazines, and cardboard.
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c. Electronic waste: Old phones, computers, and batteries.
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f. Metal waste: Cans, aluminum foil, and old cars.
g. Construction waste.
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Ways of handling waste materials safely in the environment:
1.Reduce waste: Use less plastic and buy products with less
packaging.
2.Reuse: Find ways to use things again, like using jars for
storage or old clothes for rags.
3.Recycle: Sort and recycle materials like paper, plastic, and
metal to be made into new products.
4.Composting: Turn food scraps and garden waste into compost
for growing plants.
5.Proper disposal: Take waste to the correct disposal points, like
recycling bins or waste collection services.
6.Safe storage: Store chemicals or hazardous materials in sealed
containers to avoid spills or leaks.
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Importance of proper handling of waste materials in the
environment:
1.Protects health:
Improper waste can cause diseases or injuries, especially
when waste piles up or contains harmful chemicals.
2.Prevents pollution:
Waste that is not managed properly can pollute the land,
air, and water, which harms animals, plants, and humans.
3.Conserves resources:
Recycling and reusing waste help save natural resources,
such as trees, water, and energy.
4.Reduces climate change:
Proper waste management helps reduce greenhouse
gases, like methane from landfills, which contribute to
global warming.
5.Preserves biodiversity:
By reducing pollution, we protect the homes of many
species of plants and animals.
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They help keep items steady so you can work on them, cut
them, or fix them without them moving around.
These tools make tasks easier and safer.
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3.Tongs - Used to hold hot objects or items that are too
dangerous to touch with bare hands.
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4.Clips - Used to hold papers or other items together.
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5.Vice - A large tool used to hold objects in place firmly, often
used in workshops.
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Functions or Uses of Holding Tools
1.Pliers:
Pliers are used to grip and bend wires, pull nails, or cut
small objects.
They are also useful for holding small parts in place
while you work on them.
2.Clamps:
Clamps help hold pieces of wood, metal, or other materials
together when gluing or nailing them.
They make sure the materials stay in place as you work.
3.Tongs:
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Tongs are used for safely handling hot items, such as in
cooking or working with metal.
They prevent burns by keeping your hands away from
heat.
4.Clips:
Clips hold papers or fabrics together.
They are often used to organize documents or keep things
in place temporarily.
5.Vice:
A vice is used in workshops to hold materials (like wood or
metal) tightly while they are being cut, shaped, or drilled.
It ensures the material doesn’t move during work.
3.Tongs:
Use tongs to handle hot items and wear gloves for extra
protection.
Make sure the tongs are strong enough to support the
weight of the object.
4.Clips:
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Be gentle when using clips to avoid pinching your fingers
or breaking the clip.
5.Vice:
Always make sure the object is properly aligned in the vice,
and never use it to hold something that could slip or break
easily.
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Holding tools help ensure precision in work, especially in
tasks like cutting, drilling, or gluing, which require a steady
hand.
4.Versatility:
Many holding tools can be used in a variety of settings,
from the kitchen to the workshop, making them useful for
everyday tasks.
DRIVING TOOLS.
What are Driving Tools?
Driving tools are tools used to push, pull, or strike
something to make it move or work.
They are often used for tasks like fixing, tightening, or
shaping materials.
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Driving Tools Used in Day-to-Day Life
1.Hammer
2.Spanner (Wrench)
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3.Screwdriver
4.Punches
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5.Mallet
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Uses of Driving Tools for Different Tasks
1.Hammer:
Used for hitting nails, breaking things, or shaping materials
like metal.
It’s useful in construction, repairs, and crafting.
2.Spanner (Wrench):
Used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts.
It’s common in fixing cars, bicycles, or household
appliances.
3.Screwdriver:
Used for driving screws into wood, metal, or other
materials.
It's essential for assembling furniture or repairing electrical
devices.
4.Punches:
Used for making holes or indentations in materials like
metal or leather.
They are helpful in metalworking and crafting.
5.Mallet:
A type of hammer with a soft head, used for striking
without damaging surfaces.
It’s useful for carpentry, leatherwork, and other delicate
tasks.
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3.Hold the tool properly to avoid injuries. For example, grip a
hammer by its handle and avoid hitting with too much force.
4.Use tools for their intended purpose (don’t use a wrench as a
hammer).
5.Keep your work area clean and free from distractions to avoid
accidents.
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Problem Solving: Driving tools help us fix broken items,
tighten loose parts, or shape materials, enabling us to
solve everyday problems at home, at work, or on the go.
Cost Savings: With the right tools, we can repair things
ourselves instead of paying for professional services,
saving money.
Improved Safety: Properly using driving tools can prevent
accidents or damage that may occur if tasks were done
improperly or without the right tools.
Versatility: These tools can be used for a wide range of
tasks, from home repairs to car maintenance, making them
essential in daily life.
Durability of Items: By using driving tools, we can maintain
and care for the items around us, helping them last longer
and perform better.
STRAND: ENTREPRENEURSHIP.
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Financial services are services provided by companies that
manage money.
They include things like helping people save money,
providing loans, offering insurance, and helping businesses
manage their finances.
These services are important because they help
individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals and
make money-related decisions.
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2.Insurance Companies.
Insurance companies provide protection against risks such
as accidents, illness, or property damage.
They offer various types of insurance policies, including life
insurance, health insurance, and car insurance.
In Kenya, examples include Jubilee Insurance and Britam.
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4.Microfinance Institutions.
Microfinance institutions provide financial services to
people who are not able to access services from banks due
to lack of collateral or a formal job.
They offer small loans (microloans) to help individuals or
small businesses grow.
Examples include Faulu Microfinance and Kenya Women
Microfinance Bank (KWFT).
2.Loans.
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Financial institutions offer loans to help individuals and
businesses pay for things like education, housing, or
business expansion.
SACCOs and microfinance institutions also offer loans at
lower interest rates to their members.
3.Insurance.
Insurance companies provide various types of insurance to
protect individuals and businesses against unexpected
events.
This includes life insurance, health insurance, and car
insurance.
4.Investment Services.
Some financial institutions offer investment opportunities,
such as mutual funds or retirement plans, to help people
grow their wealth over time.
5.Money Transfers.
Many financial institutions in Kenya offer money transfer
services, both locally and internationally.
These services include mobile money platforms like M-
Pesa, which allow people to send and receive money using
their phones.
6.Foreign Exchange.
Banks and some microfinance institutions also offer foreign
exchange services, where people can buy or sell foreign
currencies for travel or business.
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Utilisation of Financial Services for Entrepreneurial Development
Financial services play a key role in helping entrepreneurs
develop and grow their businesses.
Here’s how:
1.Access to Capital.
Entrepreneurs need money to start or expand their
businesses.
Banks, SACCOs, and microfinance institutions provide loans
that entrepreneurs can use to buy equipment, pay
employees, or expand their operations.
2.Financial Advice.
Financial institutions offer advisory services that help
entrepreneurs make smart decisions about how to manage
their money.
This could include advice on budgeting, investment, and
risk management.
3.Business Insurance.
Insurance protects businesses from risks like theft, fire, or
lawsuits.
Entrepreneurs can use insurance services to safeguard
their business and continue operating smoothly in case of
unexpected events.
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easily receive payments from customers and make
payments to suppliers.
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2.Economic Stability: The government helps maintain a stable
economy by controlling inflation, encouraging investment, and
regulating trade.
3.Public Welfare: Governments get involved to ensure
businesses do not harm public health or the environment and
that employees are treated fairly.
4.Promoting Growth: Governments can support businesses
through subsidies, grants, and infrastructure development,
helping to boost the economy.
5.To prevent foreign dominance of the economy by investing in
areas where the locals are not able to.
6.To redistribute wealth where returns are very high.
7.To create employment opportunities by initiating projects such
as generation of electricity.
8.To provide goods and services which are too sensitive to be
left in the hands of private sector e,g provision of firearms.
9.To stimulate economic development in the country e.g
providing social services.
10.To attract foreign investment by initiating major business
projects.
11.To provide essential goods and services in areas where
private individuals and organizations are unwilling to venture
due to low profits or high risks involved.
12.To provide essential goods and services which private
organizations and individuals are unable to provide due to the
large amount of initial capital required e.g establishment of
airlines.
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The government gets involved in business activities
through the following methods:
1.Regulation:
This involves setting rules and laws that businesses must
follow, like safety standards and tax laws.
Through this method ,the government ensures high quality
goods and services and puts in control measures to
protect consumers from exploitation.
The government regulation measures include;
(a).Licensing.
A license is a document that shows a business has been
permitted by the government to operate.
It is usually issued upon payment of a small fee.
Licensing is the process of issuing licenses to businesses.
Reasons for Licensing.
1.To regulate the number of businesses in a given place at
any given time to avoid unhealthy competition.
2.To ensure there are no illegal businesses.
3.To control the type of goods entering and leaving the
country.
4.To raise revenue for the government.
5.To ensure that those engaging in professional activities
meet the requirements of the profession.
2.Subsidies:
Offering financial support to businesses, especially in
essential sectors like agriculture.
3.Providing Infrastructure:
Building roads, electricity, and communication networks to
make business easier.
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4.Nationalization:
Taking control of certain industries or businesses,
especially if they are important for national interests.
5.Ensuring standards /enforcing standards.
The government regulates business activities by setting
standards that businesses should and ensure that the
standards are adhered to.
To achieve this the government has established bodies like
KEBS,The Ministry of Public Health
6.Legislation.
The government may come up with rules and regulations
that regulate business activities e.g banning hawking in
certain areas
7.Training.
The government takes keen interest in training and
advising people in business about business management
strategies and better ways of producing goods and
services.
The government offers these services through seminars
and courses.
This is mainly done by the Kenya Business Training
Institute (K.B.T.I)
8.Trade Promotion.
This is a government initiated and supported policy to
encourage local business people to enter into business.
This is aimed at increasing the volume and variety of goods
and services traded in.
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Taxes are money that businesses and individuals are
required to pay to the government.
A tax is a compulsory payment by citizens to the
government.
Taxation is the process by which the taxing authority
(K.R.A) makes citizens to pay taxes.
In Kenya, taxes help the government fund essential
services like education, health, and infrastructure.
Paying taxes in Kenya is mandatory for both individuals
and businesses.
Businesses must file tax returns regularly and ensure they
meet their tax obligations.
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5.Supporting Government Projects:
Taxes contribute to government projects aimed at
improving the country’s development, including education,
health services, housing, and agriculture.
This creates a better environment for both citizens and
businesses.
6.Promoting Economic Stability:
When citizens and businesses pay taxes, it ensures the
government has the financial resources to implement
policies that stabilize the economy, curb inflation, and
encourage sustainable growth.
7.Attracting Foreign Investment:
A tax-paying culture shows international investors that the
country is stable, organized, and committed to sustainable
economic practices, which can attract more foreign
investment.
8.Social Security Programs:
Taxes contribute to social welfare systems like pensions,
unemployment benefits, and other safety nets for citizens,
improving the overall social well-being of the population.
9.Job Creation:
Tax revenue helps fund the creation of public sector jobs
and the development of programs that support small
businesses and startups, leading to more employment
opportunities for the public.
10.Promoting National Pride:
Paying taxes is a way for citizens and businesses to
contribute to the national development of Kenya, fostering
a sense of ownership, national pride, and patriotism.
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11.Ensuring Law and Order:
Tax revenue funds the police and other security services,
helping to maintain law and order, which is critical for the
safety of businesses and the general public.
12.Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
Taxes help the government fund initiatives that align with
the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as
reducing poverty, promoting education, and advancing
gender equality.
13.International Relations and Aid:
A healthy tax system can help Kenya meet international
financial commitments, strengthening relationships with
global financial institutions and improving the country’s
creditworthiness.
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4.Fuel Levy: Tax imposed on fuel, which is used to fund road
construction and maintenance.
5.Excise Duty: A tax on specific goods like alcohol, tobacco, and
luxury products. It is meant to discourage the consumption of
harmful goods and generate revenue.
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Businesses that fail to follow government rules can face
fines, closures, or legal action.
2.Building Trust:
Complying with regulations helps build a good reputation,
ensuring customers and investors trust the business.
3.Ensuring Sustainability:
Following regulations ensures businesses contribute to the
social and environmental well-being of the community.
4.Access to Government Services:
Compliance is necessary for businesses to benefit from
government programs, subsidies, or support.
BUSINESS PLAN.
What is a Business Plan?
A business plan is a written document that outlines the
goals of a business, the steps needed to achieve those
goals, and how the business will succeed.
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It acts as a roadmap for running the business, guiding
entrepreneurs on how to organize, manage, and grow their
business.
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A brief overview of the business plan, summarizing the
business idea, mission, and goals.
It’s usually written last but placed at the beginning of the
plan.
2.Business Description:
Describes what the business does, its mission, and the
problems it aims to solve for customers.
This section explains the business’s purpose and the value
it offers.
3.Market/Competitor Analysis:
This section provides research about the market the
business will operate in, including the target audience and
key competitors.
It shows how the business will stand out from its
competitors.
4.Products and Services:
Describes the products or services the business will offer,
including how they solve problems for customers.
It also covers the unique selling points and benefits of the
product or service.
5.Marketing Plan:
Outlines the strategy to promote and sell the business’s
products or services.
It includes marketing tactics, pricing, distribution, and how
to reach customers effectively.
6.Financial Projection:
Provides an estimate of the business’s financial future,
including income, expenses, and profits.
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It helps the entrepreneur understand the financial needs
and the potential for profitability.
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Analysis of competitors
Market trends and customer needs
Products and Services
4.Detailed description of products or services
How your products/services benefit customers
Pricing and unique selling proposition
Marketing Plan
5.Marketing strategies (advertising, social media, etc.)
Sales strategy (how you will sell your products/services)
Customer relationship management
6.Financial Projections
Start-up costs
Projected income and expenses
Break-even analysis
Profit and loss forecast
By following this template, entrepreneurs can create a
well-organized plan to help guide the success of their
business.
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