Each class has a different focus. The goal of any introductory class is to provide an overview and basic understanding of the area of agriculture. The second level classes are designed to build off the basic principles taught in the first level courses by providing more project-based learning. All classes feature hands on STEM learning through a variety of in-class and out of class laboratories. Student leadership development and career readiness is also emphasized in every agricultural education course.
ANIMAL SCIENCE I
This course focuses on the basic scientific principles and processes that are involved in animal physiology, breeding, nutrition, and care in preparation for an animal science career major. Topics include animal diseases, introduction to animal science, animal nutrition, animal science issues, career opportunities, and animal evaluation. Skills in biology, chemistry, and algebra are reinforced in this course. Work based learning strategies appropriate for this course are agriscience projects, internships, and supervised agricultural experience. Supervised agricultural experience programs and FFA leadership activities are integral components of the course and provide many opportunities for practical application of instructional competencies.
ANIMAL SCIENCE 2 - SMALL ANIMALS (HONORS)
Prerequisite: Animal Science I
This course provides instruction on animal husbandry topics related to small animals that are served by a veterinarian. Content related to the breeding, grooming, care and marketing of animals that fit into this category will be covered through this course. Opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience will be included in the course and reinforced through work-based learning and leadership experiences. Supervised agricultural experience programs and FFA leadership activities are integral components of the course and provide many opportunities for practical application of instructional competencies
HORTICULTURE I
Instruction in the broad field of horticulture with emphasis on the scientific and technical knowledge is necessary for a career in this industry. Topics include plant growth and development, plant nutrition, media selection, basic plant identification, pest management, chemical disposal, customer relations, career opportunities, and leadership development.
HORTICULTURE 2 (HONORS)
Prerequisite(s): Horticulture I
This course is designed for students who have demonstrated an advanced level of interest and achievement in Agriculture Education. It covers instruction that expands the scientific knowledge and skills developed in Horticulture I to include more advanced scientific, computation, and communication skills needed in the horticulture industry. Topics include greenhouse plant production and management, bedding plant production, watering systems, light effects, basic landscape design, installation and maintenance, lawn and turf grass management, and career planning. More in-depth projects, additional leadership and personal speaking skills as well as skills in biology, chemistry and algebra are emphasized and reinforced. It provides the opportunity for advanced work, rigorous academic study, practical application, and transfer of knowledge and skills
HORTICULTURE 2 - LANDSCAPING (HONORS)
Prerequisite(s): Horticulture I
This course provides hands-on instruction, emphasizes safety skills needed by landscape technicians in the field, and is based on the North Carolina Landscape Contractors' Association skill standards for a Certified Landscape Technician. Students learn to interpret landscape designs; identify landscape plants; and plant and maintain trees, shrubs, and turf. Landscape construction is emphasized in the areas of grading and drainage, irrigation, paver installation, and the use and maintenance of landscape equipment. Current topic discussions provide students an understanding of careers and the employability skills needed to enter the landscape industry.
VETERINARY ASSISTING (HONORS)
Requires application
Class-internship hybrid course with a local Veterinary clinic.