Agricultural Education: Plant and Animal Systems

Courses Offered:

Agricultural Sciences and Technology (1 Credit)

Animal Science (1 Credit)

Introduction to Vet Science (1 Credit)

Small Animal Care (1 Credit)

*Courses must be taken in this order*

Course Descriptions:

Agricultural Sciences and Technology

The Agricultural Science and Technology course is designed to teach essential concepts and understanding related to plant and animal life including biotechnology, the conservation of natural resources, and the impact of agriculture and natural resource utilization on the environment. Emphasis is placed on the role of agriculture in our society and the importance of agriculture to the welfare of the world. Basic personal and community leadership and safety, and agricultural mechanical technology are included as a part of the instructional program. Each student is expected to design and participate in a supervised agricultural experience.

Typical learning activities include hands-on learning experiences including performing basic principles of plant, soil, and animal science; studying and modeling the significance of humankind’s interrelationship with soil, water, and air; and participating in FFA activities.

Animal Science

The Animal Science course is designed to provide an overview of the animal science industry. It provides information on the biological makeup of various species of agricultural livestock. It also provides students with information on animal behavior that would be beneficial before embarking on a career in Animal Science. This course is a good prerequisite for other courses in Animal Science.

Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences with the principles and practices essential in the production and management of farm animals and farm animal products for economic, recreational, and therapeutic uses; participating in personal and community leadership development activities; planning and implementing a relevant school-to-work transition experience; and participating in FFA activities.

Introduction to Vet Science

In this advanced animal science course, students will explore the field of veterinary medicine. Students will study the role of a veterinarian and veterinary technician in the diagnosis and treatment of animal diseases.

Topics to be discussed include veterinary terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathology, genetics, handling and restraint, and physical examinations along with common surgical skills. Students will engage in a variety of laboratory activities and will participate in shadowing and/or other school-to-work experiences.

Small Animal Care

The Small Animal Care course is designed to teach technical knowledge and skills for occupations in the pet industry or the companion animal industry. Skills also relate to the veterinarian or the veterinarian technician career field.

Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences with cats, dogs, rabbits, fish, etc. participating in personal and community leadership development activities; and planning a relevant school to work transition experience.