Introduction to Agriculture

Course Description: This course provides an opportunity for students to learn how the agricultural industry is organized; its major components; the economic influence of agriculture at state, national and international levels; and the scope and types of job opportunities in the agricultural field. Basic concepts in animal science, plant science, soil science, horticulture, natural resources, agribusiness management, and agricultural mechanics, will be presented. Improving computer and workplace skills will be a focus. Participation in FFA student organization activities and Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects is an integral course component for leadership development, career exploration and reinforcement of academic concepts.

ISBE Course Code: 18001A001

Grade Level: 9 & 10

Length of Course: Year

Credit: 1 Unit

Quizlet Classroom: Introduction to Agriculture

FFA LEADERSHIP

Membership:

Members must pay dues, or be members of an affiliated chapter, and are eligible for all activities, with the exception of those specifically restricted in the rules. Please reference your local FFA Constitution and By-Laws to determine how FFA Membership is conducted in your local chapter.

Degrees:

The local chapter will award Greenhand FFA Degrees to first year members enrolled in an approved agriculture education class taught by a certified teacher. For more information on FFA Degrees, please visit https://www.ilaged.org/degrees

Leadership & Career Development Events:

Members are eligible to participate in career and leadership development events at the section, district, state and national levels. For more information about these events in Illinois, visit https://www.ilaged.org/CDE

SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE

Members are able to complete Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) records and compete for the honors through proficiency awards and degrees. To learn more about SAEs, visit http://exploresae.com.

PACE FRAMEWORK ALIGNMENT

By the end of 9^th grade a student should be supported to:

• • revisit career cluster interest survey and take a career interest survey

  • complete an orientation to career clusters

  • attend a PS options workshop

  • meet with a counselor to discuss coursework and PS/career plans using the ISBE College and Career Readiness Indicators

  • begin determining eligibility for advanced placement (AP) courses

  • outline a plan for community service and extracurricular activities related to PS plans

  • complete a financial aid assessment with a family member

By the end of 9^th grade a student should know:

• • one or two career clusters for further exploration and development

  • the relationship between HS cousework, attendance, and grades to PS plans

  • importance of community service and extracurricular activities to PS and career plans

  • general cost ranges of various PS options

By the end of 10^th grade a student should be supported to:

• • visit at least one workplace aligned with career interests

  • complete an orientation course to a particular career cluster or cluster grouping

  • select a career pathway (CP) within a career cluster of interest

  • begin determining eligibility for AP courses

  • identify 2-3 adults to support the student through the PS and career selection process

  • review coursework, and PS/career plans in relation to the ISBE College and Career Readiness Indicators (every year)

  • attend a PS affordability workshop with a family member

By the end of 10^th grade a student should know:

• • educational requirements, cost, expected entry level, and midpoint salary for occupations in selected CP

  • different types of PS credentials and institutions

  • general timing of PS entrance exams and applications

  • benefit of early college credit opportunities to PS access and completion

To view the full PaCE Framework click here.