AHS AG EDUCATION | Algona FFA

ALGONA HIGH SCHOOL AGRICULTURE EDUCATION

Algona High School's Agriculture Education Department offers a wide variety of classes for students enrolled in grades 9-12 at Algona High or Bishop Garrigan. Facilities offered include the classroom, shop, Algona FFA test plot, Perry Collins Greenhouse, and Stuppy Aquaponics System. Any student enrolled in an agriculture education course is a part of the Algona FFA Chapter.

Ag Business/Leadership

Management principles utilized by successful agricultural businesses will be studied. Students will participate in commodity marketing and will utilize information available through internet technology. They are in charge of harvesting and marketing the crops from the Agricultural Research Farm.

Applied learning allows students to
organize and plan the sale of fruit and cheese and sausage. Personal development is stressed as students design their own resume, create a cover letter, and develop interview skills.

Units studied are orientation, marketing management, advertising and promotion, agricultural sales, agricultural awareness, job interview, business management & records, and agricultural research-harvesting.

Students will take a major leadership role in planning and coordinating research at the 22-
acre Agricultural Research Farm.

3 College Credits.

Ag Science

Principles of Agricultural Science—Animal is a foundation-level course engaging students in hands-on
laboratories and activities to explore the world of animal agriculture.

During the course, students develop a
comprehensive Producer’s Management Guide for an animal of their choice. Student experiences will involve
the study of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, nutrition, reproduction, health, selection, and marketing. For example, students will acquire skills in meeting the nutritional needs of animals while developing balanced,
economical rations.

Throughout the course, students will consider the perceptions and preferences of individuals within local, regional, and world markets.

Horticulture

This course is designed to present knowledge and skills in the many areas of horticulture. Students will apply plant science concepts to real life situations as varied as golf courses, home landscapes, floral designs, garden centers, or plant nurseries. Basic horticultural concepts and skills will be presented each semester, but, students may take this course both semesters as different topics will be suited. Students will help coordinate the Algona FFA Chapter’s Annual Plant Sale.

The Perry Collins Plant Laboratory, a 30’ X 40' greenhouse, greatly enhances instructional units and allows a unique opportunity to learn in a controlled environment. As a result, students will study plant anatomy and function on an applied level, propagate plants, study hydroponics and floriculture, conduct experiments, and grow a variety of plants.

Exploring Ag

Agricultural Education Program which is composed of Classroom/Laboratory, Supervised Agricultural Experience Programs, and opportunities in FFA. Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) introduces students to the range of agricultural opportunities and the pathways of study they may
pursue.

Science, mathematics, reading, and writing components are woven in the context of agriculture and students will use the introductory skills and knowledge developed in this course throughout the other agriculture
courses. Woven throughout the course are activities to develop and improve employability skills of students through practical applications.

Students will explore career and post-secondary opportunities in each area of the course. Students participating in the Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources course will experience hands-on activities, projects, and problems.

Student experiences will involve the study of communication, the science of agriculture, plants, animals, natural resources, and agricultural mechanics.

Ag Tech

Agricultural Power and Technology is a foundation level course designed to prepare students for the wide array
of career opportunities in agricultural engineering.

Students are immersed in inquiry-based exercises that tie in
the math and science of agricultural mechanics and engineering. Throughout the course, students apply
technical skill while becoming competent in the process that is used to operate, repair, engineer, and design agricultural tools and equipment.

Areas of study include: shop safety, tool operation, materials selection and use, fabrication, energy and power, machines, machinery management, engineering, technology applications.

Natural Resources

Managing our natural resources is becoming a critical concern for society. This course helps students develop an appreciation for our air, soil, and water.

Topics in computers, leadership, and personal development are
infused into the course.

Units studied include orientation, Soil and land resources, Species Management and Identification, Ecological Principles and
Management, Forestry Science and Management, Aquaculture Science, and Outdoor Recreation Resources.

Animal Health and Vet Science

Animal Health and Veterinary Science (AHVS) is a semester-long program emphasizing inquiry-based learning and technical skill development. This course provides an in-depth examination of veterinary science, focusing on the interplay of factors affecting animal health.

Through structured inquiry activities, projects, and problems, students address practical challenges, fostering critical thinking and an understanding of the intricate relationships between animal health and care.

The central focus of the curriculum is to cultivate technical skills crucial for effective animal health care. Proficiency in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment techniques will be achieved through hands-on skill practice. Integrating knowledge into CASE Study Problems will further develop problem-solving abilities and provide insight into the practical implications of veterinary science across diverse contexts. Successful completion of Ag Science is helpful for this class.