Agricultural Sciences Grade 12 | VirtualX MasterClass – Course Module 1

Agricultural Sciences Grade 12 | VirtualX MasterClass – Course Module 1 provides an in-depth study of Animal Studies, focusing on the biological and economic aspects of animal production. This course consists of nine structured lessons, covering essential topics that contribute to effective livestock management and improved productivity in animal farming.

The lessons include:

1. Animal Nutrition Requirements, Digestion, and the Alimentary Canals of Farm Animals
   • Understanding the essential nutrients for animal growth and productivity.
   • Exploring the digestion process and the structure of the digestive system in monogastric and ruminant animals.
2. The Fundamental Feed Components, Including Minerals/Elements Needed by Animals for Optimal Growth and Production
   • Analyzing the nutritional content of animal feed and the role of macronutrients and micronutrients in livestock health.
3. Scientific Feeding, Mineral and Ration Supplementation for Animals, Calculation of the Digestibility of Feeds and Feed Flow Programmes
   • Developing balanced feed rations and optimizing feeding strategies for different livestock species.
4. Types of Animal Production Systems
   • Understanding intensive, extensive, and semi-intensive production systems.
   • Evaluating the benefits and challenges of each system.
5. Animal Shelter, Protection, and Housing
   • Designing and managing livestock housing to promote animal welfare and productivity.
   • Climate control, ventilation, and space requirements in animal housing.
6. Behavior and Handling of Farm Animals
   • Understanding animal behavior and stress management techniques.
   • Safe handling practices to improve productivity and reduce injuries.
7. Reproductive Organs of Farm Animals
   • Exploring male and female reproductive systems in livestock.
   • Understanding fertility, breeding cycles, and reproductive efficiency.
8. Systems and Processes of Reproduction of Farm Animals
   • Artificial insemination, embryo transfer, and natural breeding techniques.
   • Factors affecting fertility and reproductive success.
9. The Most Common Livestock Diseases, Their Prevention, and Control
   • Identifying major diseases affecting cattle, sheep, poultry, and pigs.
   • Disease prevention strategies, vaccination programs, and biosecurity measures.

Each lesson integrates practical agricultural applications, real-world scenarios, and interactive learning activities to enhance students' understanding of animal production and management.