Agriculture and Natural Resources

This course is a hands-on exploration of cellular biology and chemical reactions that occur in an organism’s cells. Specific attention is paid to energy acquisition and use in organisms, ecosystems, and the environment. Students compare energy sources for plants and animal cells with renewable and non-renewable energy use by humans. Specific aspects to CTE include an understanding of energy types, calculations, and how energy is derived from natural and man-made sources, as well as understanding the impact of environmental laws and regulation that affect the energy industry and its role in maintaining sustainability of our natural world. Throughout the course, students identify and describe careers, certifications, and postsecondary education and training requirements to pursue a variety of environmental and energy-related fields.

Agriculture Science I provides the 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 plant science, soil science, horticulture, natural resources, agribusiness management, agricultural biotechnology, food science technology, and environmental science will be presented.

This course connects students to their environment. Through scientific data collection, direct hands-on learning, and studying of the complex relationship of humans and their use of resources, students will understand how we are connected to the environment, use resources, and determine ways to better utilize the finite resources we have. Students will engage in scientific data collection, experimental design, scientific writing, and statistical analysis to gain an intimate understanding of the natural resources and opportunities Fresno County and California have to offer.

This course is the second and final science-based CTE course in the four year Eco-Technology Pathway. During the year, students will focus on independent projects, develop project management skills, and manage an independent or small group project to develop leadership skills, inquiry skills, goal setting, time management, data collection, experimental design, and communication skills. Students will continue to complete field studies to help relate cause and effect patterns within the environment as well as develop interpersonal skills, demonstrate leadership, and maintain a long term project. Community service and a senior project are a required part of this course.

Students learn and apply skills in both operating and maintaining environments for correct plant growth. Labs and activities have an emphasis on plant identification and control of agriculture pests and weed control, plant environments, soil media, plant growth, plant propagation, transplanting, and merchandising of ornamental plants. In addition, purchasing and inventory control, and safe use of nursery materials, supplies, and equipment. Learners will also gain experience through leadership development, garden projects, and career exploration in the area of plant science.

This course typically will include content related to Earth Science in Agriculture or Agriculture Biology. Other Agriscience topics of an introductory nature are also appropriate.

This course will expose students to the career readiness skills needed for a successful internship and prepare them for the world of work, An internship is a work-based learning experience that provides students the opportunity to apply their technical and academic skills in a professional setting. Students will develop and practice an understanding of the duties and responsibilities of high-skilled career areas, including terminology, climate, protocol, and other information that will enable them to analyze and revise their meaningful future plans. This course will expose students to the career readiness skills needed for a successful internship and prepare them for the world of work. The internship is supported with activities and assignments to deepen and enhance the experience. The structure of the internship aligns with local policy and program expectations for internships.