Agricultural Science Courses Offered at

Boyd High School

 
 
 
 
Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources*
     
Students learn a variety of introductory skills and knowledge related to the field of agricultural sciences, food, and natural resources. Students also gain insight about the FFA Organization, parliamentary procedure, and develop their leadership potential. This course is the entry level course for all agriculture classes offered at Boyd High School.
 
Livestock Production
 
This course prepares students for careers in the field of animal science. Students will acquire knowledge and skills related to animal systems and the workplace. Animal species to be addressed may include beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and poultry. (one semester course followed by Equine Science)
 
Equine Science
 
In this course students will gain knowledge specific to the equine industry.
Horses, donkeys, and mules may be discussed. Units of study will include horse evaluation, digestion and nutrition, general management, and equipment and facilities needs. (one semester course offered in the spring semester.)
 
 
Principles and Elements of Floral Design
 
This course introduces students into the world of floral design and the art of flower arrangements. Beginning in 2010, students may also take this course to satisfy their Fine Arts graduation requirement. Students enrolled in the course are eligible to take the Texas State Florists Association Student Certification test and obtain an entry certification in the industry. Testing occurs annually in March/April and scholarships are available to cover the testing fee.  
 
Career Preparation
 
 Students must maintain continuous employment and work a minimum of 10 hours per week. Students will work cooperatively with the teacher and employer to develop an individual training plan and list the competencies to be learned through their job placement. For each 6 weeks grading period, students must provide a daily log of job activities, submit an employer evaluation, and provide copies of pay check stubs from each pay period.   
 
Agricultural Mechanics and Metal
 
Students will learn the fundamentals of metal fabrication and skills needed to advance to Facilities Design and Fabrication.  The basic fundamentals needed for independent metal project success will be the focus of the class.
 Grades 10-12, 9th graders are eligible if the prerequisite was taken in 8th grade.
 
Agricultural Facilities Design and Fabrication
 
Emphasizes welding and project construction skills in the advanced phases of arc welding, measurement project design and oxyacetylene and plasma cutting. 
                                          (Two sections are offered) Grades 11-12                                                  
 
Wildlife, Fisheries, and Ecology Management
 
This course examines the management of game and non-game wildlife species, fish, and aquacrops and their ecological needs as related to current agricultural practices. Students may also obtain their Hunter Safety Education Certificate in this course. (one semester course followed by Range Ecology and Management)
 
Range Ecology and Management
 
This course is designed to develop students' understanding of rangeland ecosystems and sustainable forage production. (one semester course offered during the spring semester)
 
Small Animal Management