Dr. Janine Sutter

In this class, students will learn about Plants, Animals, Ag Mechanics, Agribusiness, Environment, Careers and Leadership.  All 7th and 8th grade students are automatically enrolled in FFA (previously Future Farmers of America) as it is part of the curriculum.  Sixth graders are encouraged to sign up as members of Greenville County 4-H.  Throughout the year, students will have the opportunity to compete at FFA Career Development Events (CDE) and Leadership Development Events (LDE).  

PLEASE email me at jsutter@greenville.k12.sc.us if you have any questions or concerns

AGRICULTURE WITH DR. SUTTER

SYLLABUS

COMMUNICATION

My email address is jsutter@greenville.k12.sc.us.  I will respond to your emails within 24 hours on school days.

Student/Parent Backpack is an essential tool for accessing grades. Please contact the front office if you need assistance accessing your account.

MATERIALS NEEDED

Students will need a 1” 3-ring binder with notebook paper.  The binder can be left in the classroom.  8th grade students must bring in one box of tissues- this will be used for a project.  7th grade students should bring in a pack of colored pencils that will be for used by the class.  6th grade students should bring in a pack of washable markers that will be used by the class.  

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

While in my classroom, I expect students to adhere to the following classroom rules at all times – Any behaviors that threaten this environment will be subject to Woodmont Middle School’s discipline policy. Please see the student handbook for additional information. 1. Students must treat each other with high levels of respect and compassion. 2. Students must work with urgency. 3. Students must follow directions quickly and quietly. 4. Students must take responsibility for their learning.  5. Students must contribute positively to the classroom environment. All class rules are posted on the wall of the classroom.

COURSE GOALS

The major goals of this class are to (1) show students the diversity and impact of the agriculture industry, (2) develop students into more informed consumers, (3) teach students hard and soft skills that can be used in a future career.

GRADING

Major Assessments- 50%; Minor Assessments- 50%                                

The major assessment category includes tests, formal presentations, notebook checks (which include the daily bellringers) or culminating projects (SAE).  Students will receive notice in advance and will go through the necessary teacher-directed study and preparation for any major assessment.  Minor assessments will include vocabulary quizzes, classwork, small writing assignments, formative labs, and informal presentations.

MAKE-UP WORK POLICIES

It is the responsibility of each student to inquire about make-up work upon returning from an absence. The student has five days to turn in the missing work.

COURSE DESCRIPTION/PACING 

The information below includes an outline of the content that will be covered in each class.  This plan is subject to change in response to student needs and interests.  All classes will discuss FFA and jobs in agriculture fields.  All students will participate in a Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) that is to take place out of school.

6th grade:  Plant Science – Students will learn about the science of plants through diagraming and hands-on labs. They will become experts in plant parts, functions, and processes. If time and resources are available, students will play an active role in starting and maintaining a school garden.  Natural resources- Students will learn about and animal interactions with environment.  They will learn about ecology and conservation as well as local wildlife.

7th grade:  Animal Science- Students will study food webs/chains, animal populations, symbiotic relationships, and different types of animals.  We will discuss how animals benefit people as well as major types of livestock

8th grade:  Agribusiness:  Shark Tank Project – Students will identify current issues in the agriculture industry and develop a product/service that provides a solution. They will create a website, logo, and advertisement for their business.  Animal Science- basics of animal reproduction and inherited traits, genetic mutations and animal behaviors.  Ag-Mech- beginning welding, using small hand tools and agriculture technology.

REDO/RETAKE/REVISION POLICIES  

All current and late work must be submitted at least 3 days before the end of the quarter. Students may request a retake/redo/revise for any assessment within one week of receiving their grade. The teacher will determine any remediation or other requirements necessary for the student to complete prior to retaking a major assessment. All retakes must be completed at least 3 days before the end of the quarter.   You can find the policy here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1f7rFWKBTQS2tWuArTnVLG4aJjN36cePk/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=103177728233660638351&rtpof=true&sd=true

ABOUT THE AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION PROGRAM AND FFA

The Woodmont Middle School Agricultural Education Program has three parts:  1. Classroom and Lab Instruction: Students will learn about topics in agriculture during class and participate in hands-on activities in the classroom and around the school.  2. SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience) Project: Student will develop and complete a hands-on, skill-based record-keeping project related to agriculture. This project should be something the student is interested in and should teach them valuable skills for their future.  This is a major grade each quarter and takes place during out-of-school time.  3. FFA (Future Farmers of America): FFA is a national student organization that provides students with leadership development and career skills. All students that are in agriculture class will get access to some of the benefits of FFA, but if they would like to officially join to attend the monthly after-school meetings and the field trips they will need to pay the $15 dues.   There are opportunities for the students to hold officer positions that help grow their leadership skills.

AI Usage

Magic School

• This year, students will use MagicSchool AI, a generative AI platform designed specifically for education. As tools like ChatGPT and Gemini become standard in the professional world, utilizing MagicSchool prepares students for the future workforce by teaching safe and responsible technology use.

• Students will use these tools for real-time feedback and dynamic problem-solving. To ensure appropriate use, teachers retain access to all student chats. MagicSchool strictly protects privacy and does not collect or utilize student data. All AI software, including MagicSchool, complies with GCS Board Policy and Administrative Rule IA.

Generative AI

This course may utilize generative AI tools, such as MagicSchool and Google Gemini, to supplement traditional instruction. Greenville County Schools prioritizes the ethical use of these technologies for brainstorming and self-guided learning.

• Critical Thinking First: AI must not replace original thought or coursework.

• Academic Integrity: Using AI to complete and submit assignments as original work constitutes plagiarism.

• Required Citation: If teacher-approved, all AI use must be properly cited.

• Content Awareness: Students must remain vigilant regarding potential biases and inaccuracies in AI-generated content.

• Policy Compliance: All AI programs align with GCS Board Policy and Administrative Rule IA.