

Ag Department
What's happening in class?
This semester the classes that are offered at Western Christian are Plant Science, Animal Science, Ag Business, and Intro to AFNR. These classes give students the opportunity to learn through hands on experiences, and inquire based learning.
Last semester we also offered Ag Power and Technology, and Natural Resources and Ecology.
Plant Science
Currently in Plant Science we are studying the soil. Soil is an essential part of growing plants, but is also essential to the world as a whole. We are spending time learning the make up and chemistry of soil, and then will "get our hands dirty" and complete different soil tests.
Grades 10-12, 1 Semester, 1 Science Credit
This course will teach students about the many areas of plant science. The course will also teach students concepts and methods related to crop production, greenhouse management, basic plant science and best agronomic practices. Students will create landscape designs, work in the greenhouse, participate with the 20 acres of crops our school owns, participate in greenhouse sales and explore the plants, materials, products, and techniques used in lawns and landscapes. Many hands-on activities will be part of the course including creating various design and plant related projects.



Animal Science
In Animal Science, we are currently studying the Poultry Industry. Along with this, we are going to be hatching out our own chicks. We will integrate labs with this experience to connect what we learned in the classroom to our experiences hatching and learning to raise chicks.
Grade 10-12, 2 Semesters, 2 Science Credit
In Companion Animal Science students will have the opportunity to gain knowledge about Animals that we consider companions here in the U.S. The course will provide students with skills and concepts in the areas of breeds, anatomy, feeding and nutrition, shelter, grooming, diseases, and general animal care.
Livestock Animal Science will provide students with the opportunity to grow in their knowledge of the livestock, feed, and production areas of livestock animal science. The course will focus on breeds, shelter, and bedding techniques, management, reproduction, genetics, nutrition, selection and evaluation, processing of meats, and distribution of animal products. Students will study cattle, dairy, sheep, swine, poultry goats and other animals related to food.
AFNR
Introduction to A.griculture, F.ood, and N.atural R.esources
In Intro to AFNR, we are currently studying the beef industry. We are learning about careers, production systems, and new vocabulary that goes along with the beef industry. We will spend time in this class briefly going through different animal industries and explore the similarities and differences.
Grades 9-12, 2 Semester, 2 Credits
AFNR is an introductory course for any student interested in agriculture. This introductory course overviews animal science, plant science, natural resources, power technology and metals. The course will involve projects and activities that will use the power of "hands-on" learning to discover and connect the importance and meaning of agriculture, FFA, and SAE in our daily lives and possible future careers in agriculture.



Ag Business management is geared towards sophomores-seniors that are interested in gaining more knowledge about the business sector of agriculture.
Grades 10-12, 1 Semester, 1 Credit
This course introduces modern economic and business principles involved in the organization, operation, and management of agricultural businesses. Students will learn: financial and money management, decision-making, record keeping, budgets, risk, marketing, and sales. Projects will include creating a business plan, updating and creating your SAE plans, and an Ag sales presentation. Students will also gain experience on the business side of the use of the greenhouse.
Ag Business
Ag Power and Technology
The course is a shop laboratory course where students will have the opportunity to explore power systems and technology within the agricultural industry. Students will be expected to follow special safety procedures.
Grade 11-12, 1 Semester, 1 Credit
Ag Power and Technology will explore the agricultural industry in relation to new and growing power and technology present today. Through inquiry-based learning students will have the opportunity to create and work through projects, activities, and problems to discover more about machines and tools used in the agricultural industry. Students will apply technical skills and strategies that are used to operate, repair, engineer, and design agricultural tools and equipment.



Demco Welding
Students who want to learn more about welding are encouraged to take this course. Students will be expected to follow specific procedures for personal protective equipment as well as safety in the shop area.
Grade 11-12, 1 Semester, 7-8 Period, Credit 1
This course is offered off campus in partnership with DEMCO. Students must be 17 at the start of the class to attend. Ag Metals and Welding is dedicated to learning about the different metals and welding techniques that are present within the world of agriculture as well as the importance of personal protective equipment. Students will have the opportunity to be involved in practicing, developing, deciphering, and creating different projects and activities using MIG, Oxy-Acetylene, and stick welding throughout the semester. Using those skills, students will then be able to create a project related to the agricultural mechanics field at the end of the semester.