CareerTech logo 8th Grade Agriscience Sample Syllabus

Course Description

This course is designed to introduce students to the vast opportunities available in Agricultural Education.  Students will be given the opportunity to learn how agriculture and agribusiness effects our lives through science, food, clothing, medicine, recreation, natural resources, communications, and the economy.  Students will also have the opportunity to participate in FFA activities.  Upon completion of the course, students will have a better understanding of Agricultural Education and will have increased their knowledge in science and communications.

Content

A.    Introduction to Agricultural Education

  1. What is agriculture?
  2. How does agriculture effect our lives?
  3. What products do we use from agriculture?
  4. What jobs are in agriculture?
  5. What areas of study are available in agriculture?
  6. What can I do in Agricultural Education and the FFA?

B.    Animals

  1. List the different types of animals and their uses
  2. Describe proper practices for the care of livestock and pets 
  3. Identify basic nutrients livestock and pets need to stay healthy.
  4. Identify a variety of breeds of livestock (cattle, sheep, swine, horses)
  5. Identify a variety of breeds of dogs
  6. Identify a variety of snakes and other reptiles
  7. What products are derived from livestock

C.    Plants

  1. Identify the parts of the plant
  2. Identify common bedding plants used around the house
  3. Identify common weeds found in the yard
  4. Discuss practices to rid the lawn of weeds
  5. Identify agriculture plants and their products
  6. Learn propagation of plants through cuttings and seed germination

D.    Natural Resources

  1. Describe a Natural Resource
  2. List several areas and items considered to be natural resources
  3. Identify common wildlife in Oklahoma
  4. Identify common fish in Oklahoma
  5. Identify common trees in Oklahoma
  6. List the recreational opportunities in Oklahoma
  7. What is water management
  8. Discuss soil conservation

E.    Land and Soil

  1. Discuss the difference between soil and dirt
  2. Define erosion
  3. Determine types of soil from texture and color
  4. Discuss uses of land based on type of soil and terrain
  5. Discuss the importance of soil

F.    Communications

  1. Present a short introduction of yourself
  2. Present an informational talk over a subject related to agriculture
  3. Work as a team to develop a PowerPoint presentation involving pictures of animals, wildlife, fish, or natural resources
  4. Write a two page report on the importance of agriculture

Grading Policy:  The course will follow the school grading policy.
93-100        A
85-92          B
75-84          C
65-74          D
below 64    F

Grades will be determined by averaging test scores to equal 65% of the grade, and averaging scores earned through hands-on classroom laboratory projects to equal 35% of the grade.

1.  Textbook used
2.  Behavior expectations or routine you want followed
3.  What to bring to class each day
4.  Supplies or money that will be needed for the class
5.  Any other item you feel would help parents and students know what to expect.

Suggestions:

  1. Try and keep the syllabus to one page, front and back
  2. Give a copy to students the first day of class and have them available for parents at the parent teacher meetings.
  3. Use the syllabus to recruit students and visit with parents about "what will my child learn in Ag?"
  4. Parents, students and administrators all feel more comfortable with a class where they know what is being taught.