Agriculture
Course Descriptions
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Agricultural Mechanics I
This course develops knowledge and technical skills in the broad field of agricultural machinery, equipment, and structures. The primary purpose of this course is to prepare students to handle the day- to-day problems and repair needs they will encounter in their chosen agricultural career. Topics include agricultural mechanics safety, agricultural engineering career opportunities, hand/power tool use and selection, electrical wiring, fencing, paints and preservatives, basic metal working, basic agricultural construction skills related to plumbing, carpentry, basic welding, and leadership development. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced.
Aquaculture I
In this course students are introduced to aquaculture concepts. Students learn about the history of the development of aquaculture and what the importance of aquaculture is. The course focuses on the different types of aquatic environments, important aquatic species and plants, management of aquatic species, and marketing concepts dealing with aquaculture businesses.
Aquaculture II (Honors)
Prerequisite - Aquaculture I
This course further develops student’s understanding of aquaculture concepts that were introduced in Aquaculture 1. The course focuses on best management practices for the cultivation and harvesting of several aquatic species including alligators, frogs, oysters, tilapia, trout, catfish, crabs, and striped sea bass. It also focuses on aquaponic systems and the cultivation of aquatic plants. Aquaculture structures, species nutrition, fish health and disease, water quality issues and concerns, regulatory agencies involved with aquaculture, business management concepts, and career opportunities are also topics covered in this course.
Animal Science I
This course focuses on animal physiology, breeding, nutrition, health, and best management practices in preparation for an animal science career. Leadership development and employability skills are integral to the course and are delivered through authentic experiences. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced in this class.
Animal Science II - Companion Animal
Prerequisite - Animal Science I
This course focuses on animal welfare, safe handling practices, nutrition, digestion, breeding, grooming, care, classification, and the history of the companion animal industry. Leadership development and employability skills are integral to the course and are delivered through authentic experiences. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced in this class.
Animal Science II - Food Animal
Prerequisite - Animal Science I
This course focuses on animal anatomy, physiology, digestion, reproduction, housing and facilities, management, and genetics of the food animal industry. Leadership development and employability skills are integral to the course andare delivered through authentic experiences. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced in this class.
Biotechnology & Agriscience Research I (Honors)
This course provides instruction in the technologically advanced world of agriculture and life sciences. Students are exposed to the latest techniques and advances in plant and animal biotechnology with a strong emphasis on hands-on activities. The FFA student organization and work-based learning experiences are integrated throughout this course to bring the scientific information to students for real-life application.
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Biotechnology & Agriscience Research II (Honors)
Prerequisite - Biotechnology and Agriscience Research I
This course provides instruction in laboratory and safety skills needed by agricultural research scientists. Current applications of biotechnology in animal science, environmental science, food science, and plant science are emphasized. Basic concepts of genetics and microbiology are applied to the agriculture industry and its success in providing food and fiber for the world. Opportunities exist for students to conduct individual or team research experiments. Hands-on laboratories and current topic discussions provide students with an understanding of careers in agriscience research. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced. Work-based learning strategies appropriate for this course are apprenticeship, cooperative education, internship, mentorship, school-based enterprise, service learning, job shadowing, and supervised agricultural experience. FFA competitive events, community service, and leadership activities provide the opportunity to apply essential standards and workplace readiness skills through authentic experiences.
Equine Science I
This course focuses on the basic scientific principles and processes related to equine physiology, breeding, nutrition, and care in preparation for a career in the equine industry. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced.
Equine Science II
Prerequisite - Equine Science I
The course focuses on more advanced applications of feeding, breeding, and management - practices involved in the horse industry. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced.
Horticulture I
This course provides instruction on the broad field of horticulture with emphasis on the scientific and technical knowledge for a career in horticulture. Topics in this course include plant growth and development, plant nutrition, media selection, basic plant identification, pest management, chemical disposal, customer relations, and career opportunities. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced.
Horticulture II
Prerequisite - Horticulture I
This course covers instruction that expands scientific knowledge and skills to include more advanced scientific computations and communication skills needed in the horticulture industry. Topics include greenhouse plant production and management, bedding plant production, watering systems, light effects, basic landscape design, installation and maintenance, lawn and turf grass management, and personal development. English language arts, mathematics, and science are reinforced.
These are suggested course sequences. Communicate with your school counselor to determine the best course options for you/your student.
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