- Description
- Students explore different breeds of livestock, poultry or other animal commodities. Focusing on basic anatomy and physiology and the requirements for growing and finishing practices, students will consider the welfare of the animals and the technology available.
- Prerequisite
- AGR3000: Agriculture Safety
- Parameters
- Access to livestock, poultry or specialty animals and to appropriate animal housing and fencing structures. Potential areas of specialization include the production of cattle (beef or dairy), poultry, swine, sheep and diversified livestock (elk, bison and deer).
- Supporting courses
- AGR1040: Introduction to Animal Basics AGR2020: Animal Husbandry/Welfare
Outcomes The student will:
1 describe the basic anatomy, physiology and breeds of cattle (beef or dairy), sheep, swine, poultry or diversified livestock
1.1 examine major classes and breeds of commercial species by:
1.1.1 describing the desirable characteristics of major classes and breeds
1.1.2 identifying animal breeds that are suited to specific production and market applications
1.2 describe the characteristics and function of major anatomical structures in livestock, poultry or diversified livestock
1.3 explain vital life processes and related terminology; e.g., respiration, digestion, waste/excretion, growth, production
1.4 identify basic physical requirements for producing livestock, poultry or diversified livestock, including:
1.4.1 water and food
1.4.2 light
1.4.3 temperature
1.4.4 air/ventilation
1.4.5 space variables
1.5 describe how weather and climate may affect production activities
1.6 describe normal/abnormal feed sources and the impact of nutrient deficiencies on animal health
1.7 describe common pests, diseases and ailments that affect the health of animals within the industry, considering:
1.7.1 identification, symptoms and treatment
1.7.2 cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical methods of control
1.8 identify policy, legislation and safe practices relevant to raising livestock, poultry or specialty animals
2 demonstrate practical skills in raising, growing and finishing cattle (beef or dairy), sheep, swine, poultry or diversified livestock
2.1 provide basic feed requirements in specific situations; e.g., maintenance, growth or finishing, pregnant or lactating mother
2.2 demonstrate accepted methods of handling and restraining animals; e.g., humane handling, transportation
2.3 administer basic treatments for common pests, diseases and/or ailments; e.g., injections, dusting
2.4 clean and disinfect trailers, pens and other animal holding structures
2.5 operate equipment safely and maintain equipment used at each stage of production within the industry; e.g., hand and/or power equipment used in maintaining health and nutrition, handling equipment
3 explain factors that contribute to a healthy animal environment
3.1 describe housing and fencing structures used in producing livestock, poultry or specialty animals, including:
3.1.1 fences and shelters
3.1.2 totally confined rearing structures
3.1.3 methods of restraint
3.2 evaluate the design and/or construction of structures and equipment with respect to:
3.2.1 function, operation and maintenance
3.2.2 safety and efficiency
3.2.3 ethical, legal and environmental factors
3.2.4 economics and cost
3.3 identify policy, legislation and safe practices relevant to the use of structures and equipment within the industry
4 demonstrate basic competencies
4.1 demonstrate fundamental skills to:
4.1.1 communicate
4.1.2 manage information
4.1.3 use numbers
4.1.4 think and solve problems
4.2 demonstrate personal management skills to:
4.2.1 demonstrate positive attitudes and behaviours
4.2.2 be responsible
4.2.3 be adaptable
4.2.4 learn continuously
4.2.5 work safely
4.3 demonstrate teamwork skills to:
4.3.1 work with others
4.3.2 participate in projects and tasks
5 identify possible life roles related to the skills and content of this cluster
5.1 recognize and then analyze the opportunities and barriers in the immediate environment
5.2 identify potential resources to minimize barriers and maximize opportunities
Program of Studies 2010. Source document, © Alberta Education.