The Agricultural Science curriculum is designed to expose students to the diversity of the agricultural industry. The curriculum includes both traditional courses as well as independent study courses that allow for individualized exploration into topics of interest. For more detailed information about graduation requirements and course offerings, view the High School Program of Studies.
(8001) Introduction to Agriculture Science - 1.00 Credit
This course will introduce the student to the broad discipline of Agriculture Science, which has careers tied to the food, fiber, energy and natural resource industries. Topics investigated will include an introduction to animal and plant science, integrated pest management (IPM), soil science, microbiology, and agriculture and the environment. Leadership development and public speaking skills are taught to increase self-confidence and sharpen communication skills needed for success in a competitive society. Laboratory skills are developed through a series of investigations. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 9th &10th grades.
(8003) Current Topics in Agriculture Science - 1.00 Credit
This course offers comprehensive units in contemporary ideas in animal science, food science, tissue culture, aseptic laboratory technique, soil science & apiculture. Laboratory activities are included in each of the units of instruction. Dissection units include fetal pig and reproductive systems of bovine, porcine, ovine and avian species. The course places an emphasis on career skills including interview and resume preparation. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 10th & 11th grades.
(8005) Advanced Placement Environmental Science (weighted 1.2) - 1.00 Credit AP
Environmental Science is designed to bring the student to the equivalent of a college introductory semester course. After qualifying on the AP examination, students as college freshmen are granted three or more credits at cooperating colleges. Because of the nature of the course, taking of the AP exam is required. The assigned reading for the course is rigorous and diverse. Environmental science is an interdisciplinary study, combining ideas and information from natural sciences (biology, chemistry and geology) and social sciences (economics, politics and ethics) to present a general idea of how nature works and how things are interconnected. Topics taught include matter and energy resources, ecosystems and how they work, human population dynamics, major global problems, resources and pollution, sustaining biodiversity and ecological integrity, and environment and society. This course serves as excellent preparation for the AP Biology course and examination. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 11th and 12th grade. AP Environmental Science will count as the fourth science credit for graduation. Note: There is a fee for this exam administered by The College Board.
(8045) Biotechnology (weighted 1.2) - 1.00 Credit
Biotechnology is the science of using living cells, their components, and their enzymes to produce useful commercial products. Students will conduct advanced laboratory protocols as they work with DNA fingerprinting and barcoding, genetic modification of bacteria and plants, plant tissue culture, and analysis of immunological proteins. Additionally, students will consider the ethical and economic consequences of these technologies as their use in agricultural and medical fields expands. This course counts for science credit. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is open to students in 11th and 12th grade.
(8040) Experiments in the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (weighted 1.2) - 1.00 Credit
Experiments in agricultural and environmental sciences introduces students to the foundation of science: experimentation. Students will work in small groups to acquire proficiency in problem solving, statistical analysis, experimental design, literature search, in-depth reading, technical writing and oral presentation. As skills are mastered throughout the course, students will explore scientific topics of their choosing through extensive reading, development of experiments, and construction of a research presentation. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is open to students in 11th and 12th grade.
(8048) Seminars in Agricultural Sciences - 1.00 Credit
(8047) Seminars in Agricultural Science - .50 Credit
A student needs approval from an agricultural science teacher to take this course. It is designed to accommodate a Teaching/Laboratory Assistant (TLA). The course requirements include managing a laboratory area and conducting demonstrations in an area of agricultural science specialty. This course is designed to allow a student to be an attractive candidate for a “lab assistant” job at the university level. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. These classes are open to students in 12th grade.
(4134) Microbiology – 1.00 Credit (Prerequisite – Consent of Instructor)
Microbiology is designed for a detailed look at the invisible empire of microbes. Students will be required to read college materials and take on-line tests, conduct investigations, demonstrate mastery of technical writing and make professional contacts. This is an excellent option for a junior or senior who is considering a career in medicine or Ag. Science. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is open to students in 11th and 12th grade.
(4133) Independent Study in Microbiology - .50 Credits (Prerequisite – Consent of Instructor)
Offered as a Senior Seminar, Independent Study in Microbiology is an independent study designed for a detailed look at the invisible empire of microbes. Students will be required to read college materials and take on-line tests, conduct investigations, demonstrate mastery of technical writing and make professional contacts. This is an excellent option for a senior who is considering a career in medicine or Ag. Science. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 12th grade.
(8160) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) - Grade 9 - 1.00 Credit
(8162) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) -Grade 10 - 1.00 Credit
(8164) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) - Grade 11 - 1.00 Credit
(8166) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) - Grade 12 - 1.00 Credit
The SAE courses are available to any student who is taking an agriculture course in grades 9-12. Each student is required to conduct a project that involves reading in scientific journals, conducting experiments of a scientific nature, raising plants or animals or involving work experiences in an area of agriculture/agribusiness. A detailed record book must be kept. A minimum of 120 hours of work outside class time is mandatory. Supervisory visits will be made by agriculture teachers who involve parents/employers in the student projects as needed. Students are encouraged to invest their own money, learn first-hand how to keep records, buy and sell and to make real life decisions that affect the project. The student's career plans and educational interests are an important part of the SAE topic selection and development. These courses will be graded A-F on a straight % basis.
Students must sign up in the Agriculture Department for this course.
FFA membership is open to any student in these classes.
