Drip Irrigation Techniques

Name:

Date:

WALT & Success Criteria

WALT: We Are Learning To describe, compare and design drip irrigation systems that save water and suit New Zealand growing conditions.

Success criteria: I can: 1) name the main components of a drip system; 2) explain how drip irrigation reduces water use; 3) sketch emitter placement for a row of plants.

Differentiation: Provide sentence starters or a labelled diagram for learners who need support. Allow advanced learners to calculate seasonal water use and suggest controller schedules.

Extension activity: Propose a sensor-controlled upgrade (moisture sensor or weather-based controller) and write one advantage.

Dyslexia-friendly reading options: Use short paragraphs, larger font, extra spacing and highlight keywords (emitter, lateral, controller).

📚 Part 1: Multiple Choice & Matching

1. What is the main advantage of drip irrigation?

Reduces evaporation and delivers water to the root zone

Increases surface runoff

Uses more water than sprinklers

2. Check all components that are part of a typical drip irrigation system:

Emitters (drippers)

Lateral tubing

Pump or pressure regulator

Overhead sprinklers

Controller/timer

3. Match the emitter type to its description:

A. Button dripper

B. Inline dripper (integral)

C. Micro-sprayer

1. Provides a fine spray for small beds or seedlings

2. Small fitted dripper attached to a hole in tubing

3. Built into tubing at regular intervals for rows

4. Which crop and region pairing is already common in New Zealand for drip systems?

Vineyards in Marlborough

Native forest regeneration plantings

Alpine tussock grasslands

✏️ Part 2: Short Answers & Practical

5. In one sentence, explain how drip irrigation saves water compared with overhead sprinklers:

6. Calculation: A row has 100 vines. Each emitter delivers 2 L/hour and runs 1 hour per day for 30 days. How much water is used in that month? Show your working.

7. Sketch: Draw a simple plan showing lateral tubing and emitter placement for three fruit trees planted 3 metres apart. Label the drip lines and emitters.

8. List two site factors to consider when organising a drip system for an orchard (short answers):

9. Extension (advanced learners): Describe one sensor-based improvement (30 words max) that would help automate water use and why it would be useful.