Real-Life Communication
You are going to apply an insecticidal soap to a crop that has become
infested with aphids. You are using a new brand of insecticide called Morley's.
Before
you apply the product, you must read the label carefully. It is important
that you know the correct proportions for mixing the product. You must know
the effects it can have on crops and on humans. You can't afford to make mistakes
when dealing with sprayed chemicals.
"Reading and writing skills are
definitely important," says Donald Wander, a crop sprayer. "You have to read
every single label carefully. You have to know what is in the pesticide. You
have to know what to do and what not to do with the product.
"Many
of the words are long and complex, but you have to know their meaning," he
adds. "You can cause a lot of damage if you make mistakes, and there can be
big legal consequences."
This is what is written on the insecticide
label:
Morley's Insecticidal Soap
For use on aphids,
spider mites and earwigs. This soap contains two percent potassium salts of
fatty acids, and 98 percent other inert ingredients. The selected soaps have
contact insecticidal properties, which means that insects must be directly
sprayed to achieve proper control.
This product may be used on fruits
and vegetables up to and including the day they will be harvested. Wash produce
thoroughly before ingesting. Do not apply to plants in direct sunlight.
This
product can cause skin irritation and eye irritation. Avoid eye contact. If
product gets in eyes, flush with water. If the product contacts the skin,
rinse with water. If inhaled, immediately vacate the area where the spray
was applied. If the spray is ingested, drink milk and immediately contact
a physician.
To make sure you understood the directions, answer the
following questions about the insecticide:
- What is a contact insecticide?
- Can this spray be used on edible crops?
- What should you do if you accidentally ingest some of the spray?