KCSE Home Science Questions With Answers

1. Identify two ways in which the skin protects the body. (2 marks)

• Protects inner part from external injury

• Protects entry of micro-organism into the skin

• Melanin protects the skin from ultra violet rays.

2. Give two factors to consider when using cosmetics. (2 marks)

• Skin type and complexion

• Composition of the cosmetic

• Expiry date

• Follow manufacturers instruction

• Do not apply on a broken skin

• Remove old make up before applying new one

• Discontinue incase of skin irritations.

3. Mention two ways you would prevent dandruff. (2 marks)

• Using disinfected shampoos and hair oils

• Avoid sharing combs and head gears and sterilize.

• Clean combs and hair brushes.

4. Give two limitations of using a pressure lamp for lighting. (2 marks)

• May be noisy - The mantle is delicate-easily destroyed.

• High consumption of fuel (paraffin)

• Can be very dangerous if not handle with care

• Should be served by experts.

5. State three good qualities of a kitchen plan. (3 marks)

• Working surfaces should be of comfortable height to avoid straining.

• Sufficient working space for easy movement.

• Working surfaces should be close to each other to avoid too much movement.

• Should be well ventilated and lit to avoid fatigue.

• Work centers should allow work to flow from one surface to another without retracing steps.

6. Give two advantages of using commercial paper patterns. (2 marks)

• Accuracy and good fit is assured

• Are available in different sizes.

• Saves time and energy

• Are economical when they give more styles.

1.    Differentiate between facings and interfacings    (2 marks)

• Facing faces one side of the article and is not visible from the other, while an interfacing is sandwiched between two  layers of fabric

• Facing are on the R.S or W.S of an article using the same material or contrasting colour or texture while interfacing are chosen depending on the effect desired

• Depth of a facing is not generally less than 1cm while interfacings take the shape of the article being strengthened

2.    Name two stitches which can be worked with double thread                (1 mark)

• Thread marking

• Tailor tacking

• running stitches for gathers

• French knot

3.    State two differences between the processes of ironing and pressing                    (1 mark)

• Ironing – iron is moved to and fro on the garment while exerting pressure

• Pressing – iron is moved over the article by lifting from place to place

• damping cloth may be used between iron and garment

4    Give two qualities of a good toy for a child                                    (2 marks)

• Toy should be age-appropriate

• Should have no sharp edges

• Easy to clean

• Designed to attract the eyes

• Not too small for baby to swallow

• Made of non-toxic materials

5    Suggest three uses of ribbons in garments                                    (3 marks)

• for decoration

• As a fastening

• For disposing fullness- used as a casing

• Used as a belt

• Can be used as a collar

• firmly woven ribbon can be used on a trouser  leg hem to reduce wear/tear along the shoe line

• Used on the insides of skirts/dresses for hanging the garment on hangers.

• Can be used along seams of  stretch garments to stabilize the seam- reduce stretching along shoulders etc.

• Can be used as facings on a straight edge