Course Number and Title:
AGS 204 Animal Science
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: AGS 102
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
2 lecture hours/week
2 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course introduces the types, breeds, and classes of livestock with emphasis on practical application in the selecting, breeding, and feeding of various farm animals.
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
- Examine the history and domestication of farm animals, along with career opportunities in animal science. (CCC 1, 5; PGC 3)
- Evaluate animal behavior and welfare in the livestock industry. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; PGC 2, 3, 4)
- Examine livestock housing and equipment. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 3, 4)
- Identify diseases of cattle, sheep, swine, horses, and other livestock. (CCC 1, 2, 5, 6; PGC 2)
- Compare breeds and selection factors of livestock animals. (CCC 1, 2, 5; PGC 2, 3)
- Differentiate between the digestive systems of ruminant and non-ruminant animals. (CCC 1, 2, 5,6; PGC 2, 3)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Examine the history and domestication of farm animals, along with career opportunities in animal science.
- Identify the scope, size, and variety of the livestock industry in the United States.
- Identify career opportunities within the livestock industry.
- Evaluate animal behavior and welfare in the livestock industry.
- Apply safety practices to be followed when working with beef cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and horses.
- Review Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards as related to working with livestock.
- Discuss pesticide hazards, toxicity levels, and label information.
- Compare animal welfare versus animal rights.
- Examine livestock housing and equipment.
- Appraise adequate and economical housing used for livestock animals.
- Practice handling methods as related to various livestock.
- Identify proper methods to dispose of dead animals from livestock production operations.
- Identify diseases of cattle, sheep, swine, horses, and other livestock.
- Compare various diseases of livestock and propose potential solutions.
- Describe the importance of early/proper disease recognition and treatment.
- Compare breeds and selection factors of livestock animals.
- Examine the genetics of various breeds of livestock.
- Manage reproductive processes in livestock.
- Differentiate between the digestive systems of ruminant and non-ruminant animals.
- Classify farm animals as ruminant or non-ruminant.
- Analyze the ability of ruminants and non-ruminants to digest and absorb different classes of feed.
- Examine sources of feed nutrients for livestock.
- Debate hormone use and feed supplements and their effect on livestock growth and nutrition.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Percentage of final grade |
Summative Assessments |
- Exams (3) (equally weighted)
| 20% |
- Labs (5-6) (equally weighted)
| 40% |
Formative Assessments |
- Quizzes (3-4) (equally weighted)
| 10% |
The course will contain various formative assessments including but not limited to: - Assignments
- Group Activities
- Current events
- Readings
| 30% |
TOTAL | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
AGSAASAGS
1. Demonstrate professional behaviors that satisfy workplace expectations.
2. Demonstrate effective professional communication skills.
3. Competently perform common practices and skills within the various aspects of the agriculture industry.
4. Demonstrate adherence to ethical, safety and environmental practices related to the agriculture industry.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.