Equine
Science Sample Syllabus
Equine
Science Sample Syllabus
Course Description: This course is designed to introduce students to the world of Equine Science. Upon completing this course, students will be able to understand and apply the basic concepts of Equine Science. This course will prepare students to care for and utilize a horse for pleasure or work. It will also give students the opportunity to compete in equine and leadership activities through the FFA.
Course Content:
A. Introduction to the horse and horse industry
1. Define terms associated with Equine.
2. Identify careers and
areas of study related to the Horse industry.
3. Discuss the
importance of the knowing about a horse before owning one.
B. The history of the horse
1. Where did the horse come from?
2. Zoological classification of the horse.
3. Discuss the uses of a horse?
4. List the types of horses.
C. Equine Anatomy
1. Determine the age of a horse.
2. Discuss common blemishes found on horses.
3. Identify major or common body parts of the horse.
4. Identify the major bones of the horses forelimb and rearlimb.
5. Determine a horse's height and estimate its weight.
6. Identify and describe the procedure for shoeing and trimming a horse's hoof.
D. Equine Nutrition
1. Define terms associated with equine nutrition.
2. Identify the parts of the horse's digestive system.
3. Discuss the differences between the digestive system of the horse and other farm animals.
4. Discuss why the nutritional requirements of horses are different from other ruminants and
simple stomached farm animals.
5. Discuss factors to consider in determining proper feed ingredients and roughage for a horse.
6. Discuss how one should determine the amount of feed to give a horse under various conditions.
E. Equine Diseases
1. List common diseases associated with horses and their symptoms.
2. List common internal parasites, their symptoms, and preventative practices.
3. Describe how diseases can be transmitted from horse to horse.
4. Describe the differences between treatment, control, and prevention.
5. Discuss when to call a veterinarian.
6. Discuss the importance of equine dentistry.
7. Discuss the importance of prevention through sanitation.
8. Discuss how good management can help prevent or control common parasites.
F. Preparing, riding, and grooming your horse
1. Define terms associated with riding a horse
2. Identify equipment to be used in riding.
3. Identify the parts of the riding equipment.
4. List the steps to take when preparing the horse and equipment for a ride.
5. List the steps to take when you are finished riding.
G. Horse Safety
1. Discuss the do's and don'ts concerning approaching and catching a horse.
2. Identify types of horse behavior that alerts you to caution.
3. List the proper procedure for addressing horses at various stages in their training.
4. Discuss the safe areas to stand when addressing a horse.
5. Discuss the proper way to handle, lead, and secure a horse.
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 60% of the grade, averaging scores earned through hands-on classroom laboratory projects to equal 20% of the grade, performing tasks related to horse care and riding 15%, and the score earned in the area of their supervised project to equal 5% of the grade.
Note
Other items to consider when completing this course syllabus include:
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: