Original source · Published 2024 · Updated 2024

Agriculture Technology 7–10 (2024)

Implementation from 2027

The new Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus (2024) is to be implemented from 2027. The Agricultural Technology 7–10 Syllabus (2019) will not be available after December 2028.

2026 – Plan and prepare to teach the new syllabus

2027 – Start teaching the new syllabus

School sectors are responsible for implementing syllabuses and are best placed to provide schools with specific guidance and information on implementation given their understanding of their individual contexts. Schools may choose to implement the new syllabus during the planning and preparation phase.

Overview

Syllabus overview

Organisation of Agriculture Technology 7–10

The organisation of outcomes and content for Agriculture Technology 7–10 illustrates the important role of practical experiences, project work and agricultural enterprises in the development of knowledge, understanding and skills.

Outcomes and content are organised under the focus areas.

Figure 1 shows the organisation of Agriculture Technology 7–10.

[FIGURE]

Figure 1: The organisation of Agriculture Technology 7–10

Image long description: The 3 focus areas appear in the centre of the diagram. They are Plant production, Animal production, and Agriculture systems and practice. A figure-eight loop intersects the focus areas at their centre and is labelled Applying technology on the left and Practical experiences on the right. All content is encircled by a single line labelled Develop knowledge, understanding and skills using agriculture technologies.

Life Skills outcomes and content

Students with disability can access the syllabus outcomes and content in a range of ways. Decisions regarding curriculum options should be made in the context of collaborative curriculum planning.

Some students with intellectual disability may find the Years 7–10 Life Skills outcomes and content the most appropriate option to follow in Stage 4 and/or Stage 5. Before determining whether a student is eligible to undertake a course based on Life Skills outcomes and content, consideration should be given to other ways of assisting the student to engage with the Stage 4 and/or Stage 5 outcomes, or prior stage outcomes if appropriate. This assistance may include a range of adjustments to teaching, learning and assessment activities.

Life Skills outcomes cannot be taught in combination with other outcomes from the same subject. Teachers select specific Life Skills outcomes to teach based on the needs, strengths, goals, interests and prior learning of each student. Students are required to demonstrate achievement of one or more Life Skills outcomes.

Protocols for collaborating with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities

NESA is committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal Communities and supporting teachers, schools and schooling sectors to improve educational outcomes for young people.

It is important to respect appropriate ways of interacting with Aboriginal Communities and Cultural material when teachers plan, program and implement learning experiences that focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Priorities.

Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) protocols need to be followed. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ ICIP protocols include Cultural Knowledges, Cultural Expression and Cultural Property and documentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ identities and lived experiences. It is important to recognise the diversity and complexity of different Cultural groups in NSW, as protocols may differ between local Aboriginal Communities.

Teachers should work in partnership with Elders, parents, Community members, Cultural Knowledge Holders, or a local, regional or state Aboriginal Education Consultative Group. It is important to respect Elders and the roles of men and women. Local Aboriginal Peoples should be invited to share their Cultural Knowledges with students and staff when engaging with Aboriginal histories and Cultural Practices.

Creating written texts supports learning

The development of the Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus follows Recommendation 2: ‘Clarify and strengthen writing content in syllabus documents’ from Teaching writing: report of the thematic review of writing (NESA 2018).

Creating written texts facilitates learning as it promotes explicitness, encourages the integration of ideas, supports reflection, fosters personal engagement and aids learners to think about the significance and implication of ideas. Each subject has particular and specific writing demands relevant for communicating within and about the discipline. Writing about content enhances understanding across subjects and stages.

The secondary curriculum includes:

systematic development of expectations for creating written texts which align with the English K–10 Syllabus (2022)
explicit writing content to support students to become fluent creators of texts and to deepen their understanding of the subject area
opportunities to practise the process of creating written texts to develop and communicate knowledge, understanding and ideas
a focus on development of word consciousness and precise use of subject-specific terminology.

Creating written texts refers to the act of composing and constructing a text for a particular purpose, audience and context.

Various methods of transcription may be employed, and a student’s preferred communication form(s) should be considered when teaching.

Balance of content

The amount of content associated with a given outcome is not necessarily indicative of the amount of time spent engaging with the respective outcome. Teachers use formative and summative assessment to determine instructional priorities and the time needed for students to demonstrate expected outcomes.

In considering the intended learning, teachers make decisions about the sequence and emphasis to be given to particular groups of content based on the needs and abilities of their students.

Agricultural enterprises

School resources and local context determine the type, depth and nature of the agricultural enterprises studied. Agricultural enterprises focus on plants, animals or integrated plant–animal systems. When selecting agricultural enterprises, teachers should include some enterprises that are important to the students’ local context, and others that extend students’ knowledge about the broader context of Australian agriculture. Intensive and extensive enterprises should be included in the course for students to gain an understanding of the diverse nature of Australian agriculture.

Course description

Courses

The Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus includes 4 elective courses:

Agriculture Technology 200-hour elective
Agriculture Technology 100-hour elective
Agriculture Technology Life Skills 200-hour elective
Agriculture Technology Life Skills 100-hour elective.

Focus of learning

The Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus enables students to develop knowledge, understanding and skills to explore the application of technologies and processes in agricultural contexts. They establish and manage plant and animal production enterprises in local environments. Students engage in practical experiences and project work to develop project management, collaboration and communication skills to support their future learning.

What students learn

Students develop knowledge and understanding about agricultural production, including systems and Practices used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. They are provided with opportunities to access and participate in plant and animal production processes, both individually and collaboratively. Students investigate how the application of agricultural systems and practices can impact on the environment and contribute to sustainability.

Students learn and apply safe work practices when establishing and managing agricultural production enterprises. Students explore innovative, sustainable design and production practices which enables them to understand the challenges, limitations and consequences of developing agricultural systems and solutions. Students design, plan and improve agricultural systems and solutions, and learn to apply their knowledge and synthesise conclusions from experimentation to support quality agricultural production.

Through diverse, real-world learning experiences students engage with traditional, contemporary and innovative technologies that have the potential to transform local and global agricultural systems and practices. Students learn to recognise career opportunities through an exploration of current and emerging agricultural technologies and practices.

Course requirements

Practical experiences and project work

To satisfy the requirements of the syllabus, students undertake a range of practical experiences and project work. These experiences should be used to develop the skills of designing, investigating, using technology and communicating.

Practical experiences must make up the majority of the course and should be designed to be accessible to all students. Practical experiences may include:

fieldwork
small plot activities
laboratory work
plant and animal production activities
maintenance activities
models and simulations
field trips to commercial farms and other parts of the production and supply chain.

Schools may choose to deliver a project that involves sustained agricultural practice. This will provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate their interest and ability to integrate and apply technological concepts and skills.

Students with disability may require adjustments in order to engage in practical experiences or project work.

Safety and risk management

Schools are required to ensure they follow safety and risk management, including the welfare of animals, in delivering the Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus.

100-hour and 200-hour elective course requirements

Agriculture Technology 7–10 may be studied as a 100-hour or a 200-hour course. The content available for Stage 4 is identical to Stage 5. When teaching the course in Stage 4, the Stage 5 outcomes may be adjusted as appropriate to the needs of students in Years 7 and 8. Advice is provided to support teachers.

100-hour elective course requirements

Students are required to undertake:

at least 2 enterprises, drawing on content from appropriate focus areas
one intensive or one extensive enterprise
one plant enterprise and one animal enterprise
at least one collaborative activity.

200-hour elective course requirements

Students are required to undertake:

at least 4 enterprises
content from all focus areas
one intensive and one extensive enterprise
at least one plant and one animal enterprise
at least one collaborative activity.

Life Skills – 100-hour and 200-hour elective courses

For Agriculture Technology Life Skills:

Students are required to demonstrate achievement of one or more Agriculture Technology 7–10 Life Skills outcomes.
Outcomes and content should be selected to meet the particular needs of individual students.
The focus areas provide possible frameworks for addressing the Agriculture Technology 7–10 Life Skills outcomes and content and are suggestions only. Teachers have the flexibility to select, group and sequence outcomes and content to meet the needs, strengths, goals, interests and prior learning of their students.
Where appropriate, students should have the opportunity to engage in practical learning or project work. Some students with disability may require adjustments in order to engage in practical experiences or project work.
Collaborative activities provide opportunities for students to develop communication and interpersonal skills. Where appropriate, students should have the opportunity to collaborate on tasks. Some students may require explicit teaching of collaboration skills.

Course enrolment details

Agriculture Technology – 200-hour elective

Course number: 1663
Course hours: 200
Enrolment type: Elective

Exclusions

Agriculture Technology Life Skills – 200-hour elective: 1665
Agricultural Technology (2019) – 200-hour elective: 1605

Students may not access Life Skills outcomes and other outcomes from the same subject.

Agriculture Technology – 100-hour elective

Course number: 1662
Course hours: 100
Enrolment type: Elective

Exclusions

Agriculture Technology Life Skills – 100-hour elective: 1664
Agricultural Technology (2019) – 100-hour elective: 1606

Students may not access Life Skills outcomes and other outcomes from the same subject.

Agriculture Technology Life Skills – 200-hour elective

Course number: 1665
Course hours: 200
Enrolment type: Elective

Exclusions

Agriculture Technology – 200-hour elective: 1663
Agricultural Technology Life Skills (2019) – 200-hour elective: 1609

Students may not access Life Skills outcomes and other outcomes from the same subject.

Agriculture Technology Life Skills – 100-hour elective

Course number: 1664
Course hours: 100
Enrolment type: Elective

Exclusions

Agriculture Technology – 100-hour elective: 1662
Agricultural Technology Life Skills (2019) – 100-hour elective: 1608

Students may not access Life Skills outcomes and other outcomes from the same subject.

RoSA information

Information about curriculum requirements for the RoSA are available on Assessment Certification Examination (ACE).

Rationale

Studying Agriculture Technology inspires students to engage with agricultural enterprises, practices and the application of technologies, including those used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Students develop knowledge, understanding and skills to engage in agricultural processes and develop sustainable solutions to improve the lives of people.

Agriculture contributes significantly to Australia’s economy, society and culture. It influences Australia’s prosperity through investment, employment, domestic consumption and export of raw products and processed goods. Students are encouraged to develop an appreciation of the complexity of agricultural production and associated industries.

Through the study of the Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus, students develop knowledge and understanding about a range of agricultural practices, including practices used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples who are Custodians of the land and waterways. Students are provided with the opportunity to learn about sustainable land management practices and Customary farming practices which have been maintained for millennia. Exploration of these practices encourages students to embrace an understanding of cultural and social diversity in the practice and application of agricultural technologies.

Students investigate agricultural enterprises, practices and the application of technologies. Students explore the relationships between production, processing and consumption and learn to recognise the importance of local and global agriculture.

Students engage in responsible decision-making about the use of current and emerging technologies and processes to improve access to and participation in the management of plant and animal enterprises. The dynamic nature of agricultural industries in Australia enables students to explore innovation, environmentally sustainable practices and societal influences. Students recognise the importance of ethical and legal considerations for producers and consumers.

The Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus builds on the Technology 7–8 Syllabus (2023) and allows students to apply knowledge to new situations, advancing their practical and technical skills. Students are encouraged to use technologies and processes safely to explore agricultural production opportunities, conduct experimentation and testing, and consider innovative solutions. Practical investigation opportunities assist students to assess the impact of agricultural practices on soil, air and water, and to consider broad perspectives for land and environmental management.

Students can become increasingly confident, skilful, efficient and discerning when engaged in research and practical experiences covered in the syllabus. They expand their understanding of related industries and work environments while developing skills to equip them for further education, vocational pathways and personal interests.

Aim

The aim of the Agriculture Technology 7–10 Syllabus is to enable students to:

become safe, skilful and responsible users of agricultural technologies
apply agricultural knowledge and skills to manage and produce plant and animal products
develop understanding of the importance of agriculture and agricultural enterprises for society, the economy and the environment
apply agricultural knowledge, understanding and skills across a range of practical and technological contexts.

Table of outcomes

Secondary (7–10)

Focus area	Stage 4	Stage 5	Related Life Skills for Stages 4/5
Plant production	AGT4-ADJ-01 in Stage 4 teachers may adjust the Stage 5 outcomes as appropriate to the needs of students in Years 7 and 8	AGT5-SAF-01 applies production processes and safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGT5-APG-01 explains factors that influence animal and plant selection, growth and development in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-PRA-01 explains industry practices in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-ENV-01 analyses relationships between agricultural production, sustainability and consumers AGT5-IVT-01 investigates and assesses the influence of innovation and management practices on agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-USE-01 selects and justifies the use of technologies and processes in agricultural production and systems AGT5-COM-01 communicates ideas and concepts in agricultural technology contexts	AGTLS-SAF-01 demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-PMP-01 plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01 participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-APG-01 recognises plants or animals used for agricultural production AGTLS-APG-02 demonstrates the safe treatment and care of animals or plants while engaging in agricultural production AGTLS-APG-03 identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-PRA-01 identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-02 identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-ENV-01 identifies sustainable practices used in agricultural production AGTLS-IVT-01 recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-01 uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-02 uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-03 uses strategies to test processes or products AGTLS-COM-01 communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts
Animal production	AGT4-ADJ-01 in Stage 4 teachers may adjust the Stage 5 outcomes as appropriate to the needs of students in Years 7 and 8	AGT5-SAF-01 applies production processes and safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGT5-APG-01 explains factors that influence animal and plant selection, growth and development in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-PRA-01 explains industry practices in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-ENV-01 analyses relationships between agricultural production, sustainability and consumers AGT5-IVT-01 investigates and assesses the influence of innovation and management practices on agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-USE-01 selects and justifies the use of technologies and processes in agricultural production and systems AGT5-COM-01 communicates ideas and concepts in agricultural technology contexts	AGTLS-SAF-01 demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-PMP-01 plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01 participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-APG-01 recognises plants or animals used for agricultural production AGTLS-APG-02 demonstrates the safe treatment and care of animals or plants while engaging in agricultural production AGTLS-APG-03 identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-PRA-01 identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-02 identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-ENV-01 identifies sustainable practices used in agricultural production AGTLS-IVT-01 recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-01 uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-02 uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-03 uses strategies to test processes or products AGTLS-COM-01 communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts
Agriculture systems and practice	AGT4-ADJ-01 in Stage 4 teachers may adjust the Stage 5 outcomes as appropriate to the needs of students in Years 7 and 8	AGT5-SAF-01 applies production processes and safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGT5-APG-01 explains factors that influence animal and plant selection, growth and development in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-PRA-01 explains industry practices in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-ENV-01 analyses relationships between agricultural production, sustainability and consumers AGT5-IVT-01 investigates and assesses the influence of innovation and management practices on agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-USE-01 selects and justifies the use of technologies and processes in agricultural production and systems AGT5-COM-01 communicates ideas and concepts in agricultural technology contexts	AGTLS-SAF-01 demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-PMP-01 plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01 participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-APG-01 recognises plants or animals used for agricultural production AGTLS-APG-02 demonstrates the safe treatment and care of animals or plants while engaging in agricultural production AGTLS-APG-03 identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-PRA-01 identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-02 identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-ENV-01 identifies sustainable practices used in agricultural production AGTLS-IVT-01 recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-01 uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-02 uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-03 uses strategies to test processes or products AGTLS-COM-01 communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts

Before deciding that a student should undertake a course based on Life Skills outcomes and content, consideration should be given to other ways of assisting the student to engage with the Stage 4 or Stage 5 outcomes. Further information in relation to planning, implementing and assessing Life Skills outcomes and content can be found on the NESA website.

Outcomes and content for Stage 4

Plant production

Outcomes

A student:

in Stage 4 teachers may adjust the Stage 5 outcomes as appropriate to the needs of students in Years 7 and 8 AGT4-ADJ-01

Content

Plants and their environment

Identify and select plants for agricultural production
Explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ plant-based enterprises
Explain suitable plant species for specific enterprises, climates and markets
Describe the structure of plants and explain their function in relation to an agricultural plant enterprise
Investigate and describe soil quality indicators including abiotic and biotic properties
Implement soil management operations for plant-based enterprises

Production

Investigate and describe the calendar of operations for a plant production cycle
Evaluate and explain the timing and impact of operations in a plant production cycle
Identify risks and demonstrate safe work practices in the management of plant enterprises
Identify and describe resources required to establish plant enterprises
Investigate and apply a range of propagation techniques
Select and apply technologies and processes to establish a plant enterprise
Manage and monitor growth and development of agricultural plants
Identify and describe common plant pests and diseases
Evaluate the role of microorganisms and invertebrates and their effect on plant production
Investigate strategies for the management and control of plant pests and diseases
Justify the selection of technologies and processes used to collect and manage data during plant production
Investigate and describe how emerging technologies influence changes to industry practices
Create written texts to explain and evaluate factors that influence plant production processes and practices

Post-harvest and marketing

Explain the steps from the farm gate to the consumer for selected agricultural plant products
Describe current and emerging technologies used in traceability for plants and plant products
Evaluate the need for traceability of plants and plant products, including disease prevention, market access and ethical considerations
Investigate market specifications and availability for seasonal agricultural plant products
Assess the quality of plant products based on identified market specifications
Analyse ways that consumers can influence change in plant production and distribution practices to improve sustainability, increase food security and minimise waste

Animal production

Outcomes

A student:

in Stage 4 teachers may adjust the Stage 5 outcomes as appropriate to the needs of students in Years 7 and 8 AGT4-ADJ-01

Content

Animals and their environment

Identify animals used in agricultural production
Explore sustainable wildlife conservation Practices developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Explain the suitability of breeds for specific animal enterprises, climates and markets
Describe the structure and function of the digestive and reproductive systems of a range of animals

Production

Investigate and describe the calendar of operations for an animal production cycle
Evaluate and explain the timing and impact of operations in an animal production cycle
Identify risks and demonstrate safe work practices in the management of animal enterprises
Identify and describe resources required to establish animal enterprises
Select and apply technologies and processes in the management of animal enterprises
Apply animal welfare guidelines and regulations in the management of animal enterprises
Communicate the planning and management of animal enterprises
Investigate and explain nutritional requirements for different stages of animal production
Apply a range of animal management skills and maintain appropriate records when engaging in animal enterprises
Investigate and evaluate technologies for data collection and monitoring of animal enterprises and their performance
Identify and explain effects of common pests and diseases on animal production
Evaluate effects of microorganisms and invertebrates on animal production
Identify programs, techniques and technologies used in animal breeding
Explain the impact of animal breeding processes on production
Create written texts to explain and evaluate factors that influence animal production processes and practices

Processing and marketing

Explain the steps from the farm gate to the consumer in animal production enterprises
Describe current and emerging technologies used for traceability of animals and animal products
Evaluate the need for traceability of animals and animal products, including for disease prevention, market access and animal welfare
Analyse how emerging agricultural animal technologies and practices may influence consumers, society and the environment
Investigate market specifications and availability for a range of agricultural animal products
Assess the quality of agricultural animal products based on identified markets and their specifications

Agriculture systems and practice

Outcomes

A student:

in Stage 4 teachers may adjust the Stage 5 outcomes as appropriate to the needs of students in Years 7 and 8 AGT4-ADJ-01

Content

Land and enterprise management practices

Investigate land management systems and practices developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Explore early European farming practices to determine their influence on agricultural production, environmental sustainability and society
Explain the transformation of agricultural systems and industries in Australia from early European practices to current practices
Evaluate agricultural management practices to determine their impact on the environment and production
Compare short-term and long-term effects of agricultural production systems on sustainability
Describe how agricultural systems contribute to and are affected by climate change
Identify and evaluate mitigation strategies to address the effects of climate change on agricultural production
Compare intensive and extensive production systems
Explain different production techniques for identified agricultural systems and enterprises
Evaluate the impact of Australian innovation on agricultural production and management practices
Compare emerging agricultural production methods in regional and urban environments
Investigate and evaluate the impact of environmental, social and political factors on food security
Explain the need for national-level and farm-level biosecurity measures
Demonstrate safe practices when selecting and using technologies and production processes
Create written texts to explain and evaluate processes, challenges and solutions in agriculture systems and practice.

Agricultural systems and solutions

Investigate opportunities to design agricultural systems and solutions
Generate ideas to develop and manage solutions to identified agricultural needs
Design and conduct experiments and tests to formulate, modify and document solutions
Select and use technologies to record observations, manage data and develop solutions
Use a range of digital and communication technologies to present observations, data and solutions
Synthesise conclusions from experimentation, testing and data analysis
Create written texts to explain and evaluate agricultural solutions and production processes

Innovation and industry practices

Investigate and describe Australian agricultural production and industry trends
Explore agricultural innovations developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Assess factors affecting the economic viability of current and emerging agricultural industries by analysing data
Evaluate how research and innovation influence the development of agricultural practices and industries
Investigate the role of Agtech startups in developing agricultural systems and solutions
Describe factors affecting the implementation of innovative agricultural technologies and processes
Outline marketing strategies used in agricultural production
Explain factors that determine how agricultural products are marketed to consumers
Apply market research strategies to develop innovative agricultural products
Evaluate effects of value-adding when marketing agricultural products
Develop and communicate promotional materials to inform consumers of agricultural products and industries
Describe how cultural diversity in Australian society has influenced agricultural production
Analyse how agricultural industries may influence consumers and society
Investigate career opportunities in current and emerging agricultural industries
Use subject-specific terminology to describe agricultural technologies, processes and industries
Create written texts to describe relationships between society, innovation and agricultural production

Outcomes and content for Stage 5

Plant production

Outcomes

A student:

applies production processes and safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGT5-SAF-01
explains factors that influence animal and plant selection, growth and development in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-APG-01
explains industry practices in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-PRA-01
analyses relationships between agricultural production, sustainability and consumers AGT5-ENV-01
investigates and assesses the influence of innovation and management practices on agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-IVT-01
selects and justifies the use of technologies and processes in agricultural production and systems AGT5-USE-01
communicates ideas and concepts in agricultural technology contexts AGT5-COM-01

Related Life Skills outcomes: AGTLS-SAF-01, AGTLS-PMP-01, AGTLS-PRD-01, AGTLS-APG-01, AGTLS-APG-02, AGTLS-APG-03, AGTLS-PRA-01, AGTLS-PRA-02, AGTLS-ENV-01, AGTLS-IVT-01, AGTLS-USE-01, AGTLS-USE-02, AGTLS-USE-03, AGTLS-COM-01

Content

Plants and their environment

Identify and select plants for agricultural production
Explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ plant-based enterprises
Explain suitable plant species for specific enterprises, climates and markets
Describe the structure of plants and explain their function in relation to an agricultural plant enterprise
Investigate and describe soil quality indicators including abiotic and biotic properties
Implement soil management operations for plant-based enterprises

Production

Investigate and describe the calendar of operations for a plant production cycle
Evaluate and explain the timing and impact of operations in a plant production cycle
Identify risks and demonstrate safe work practices in the management of plant enterprises
Identify and describe resources required to establish plant enterprises
Investigate and apply a range of propagation techniques
Select and apply technologies and processes to establish a plant enterprise
Manage and monitor growth and development of agricultural plants
Identify and describe common plant pests and diseases
Evaluate the role of microorganisms and invertebrates and their effect on plant production
Investigate strategies for the management and control of plant pests and diseases
Justify the selection of technologies and processes used to collect and manage data during plant production
Investigate and describe how emerging technologies influence changes to industry practices
Create written texts to explain and evaluate factors that influence plant production processes and practices

Post-harvest and marketing

Explain the steps from the farm gate to the consumer for selected agricultural plant products
Describe current and emerging technologies used in traceability for plants and plant products
Evaluate the need for traceability of plants and plant products, including disease prevention, market access and ethical considerations
Investigate market specifications and availability for seasonal agricultural plant products
Assess the quality of plant products based on identified market specifications
Analyse ways that consumers can influence change in plant production and distribution practices to improve sustainability, increase food security and minimise waste

Animal production

Outcomes

A student:

applies production processes and safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGT5-SAF-01
explains factors that influence animal and plant selection, growth and development in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-APG-01
explains industry practices in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-PRA-01
analyses relationships between agricultural production, sustainability and consumers AGT5-ENV-01
investigates and assesses the influence of innovation and management practices on agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-IVT-01
selects and justifies the use of technologies and processes in agricultural production and systems AGT5-USE-01
communicates ideas and concepts in agricultural technology contexts AGT5-COM-01

Content

Animals and their environment

Identify animals used in agricultural production
Explore sustainable wildlife conservation Practices developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Explain the suitability of breeds for specific animal enterprises, climates and markets
Describe the structure and function of the digestive and reproductive systems of a range of animals

Production

Investigate and describe the calendar of operations for an animal production cycle
Evaluate and explain the timing and impact of operations in an animal production cycle
Identify risks and demonstrate safe work practices in the management of animal enterprises
Identify and describe resources required to establish animal enterprises
Select and apply technologies and processes in the management of animal enterprises
Apply animal welfare guidelines and regulations in the management of animal enterprises
Communicate the planning and management of animal enterprises
Investigate and explain nutritional requirements for different stages of animal production
Apply a range of animal management skills and maintain appropriate records when engaging in animal enterprises
Investigate and evaluate technologies for data collection and monitoring of animal enterprises and their performance
Identify and explain effects of common pests and diseases on animal production
Evaluate effects of microorganisms and invertebrates on animal production
Identify programs, techniques and technologies used in animal breeding
Explain the impact of animal breeding processes on production
Create written texts to explain and evaluate factors that influence animal production processes and practices

Processing and marketing

Explain the steps from the farm gate to the consumer in animal production enterprises
Describe current and emerging technologies used for traceability of animals and animal products
Evaluate the need for traceability of animals and animal products, including for disease prevention, market access and animal welfare
Analyse how emerging agricultural animal technologies and practices may influence consumers, society and the environment
Investigate market specifications and availability for a range of agricultural animal products
Assess the quality of agricultural animal products based on identified markets and their specifications

Agriculture systems and practice

Outcomes

A student:

applies production processes and safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGT5-SAF-01
explains factors that influence animal and plant selection, growth and development in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-APG-01
explains industry practices in agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-PRA-01
analyses relationships between agricultural production, sustainability and consumers AGT5-ENV-01
investigates and assesses the influence of innovation and management practices on agricultural enterprises and systems AGT5-IVT-01
selects and justifies the use of technologies and processes in agricultural production and systems AGT5-USE-01
communicates ideas and concepts in agricultural technology contexts AGT5-COM-01

Content

Land and enterprise management practices

Investigate land management systems and practices developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Explore early European farming practices to determine their influence on agricultural production, environmental sustainability and society
Explain the transformation of agricultural systems and industries in Australia from early European practices to current practices
Evaluate agricultural management practices to determine their impact on the environment and production
Compare short-term and long-term effects of agricultural production systems on sustainability
Describe how agricultural systems contribute to and are affected by climate change
Identify and evaluate mitigation strategies to address the effects of climate change on agricultural production
Compare intensive and extensive production systems
Explain different production techniques for identified agricultural systems and enterprises
Evaluate the impact of Australian innovation on agricultural production and management practices
Compare emerging agricultural production methods in regional and urban environments
Investigate and evaluate the impact of environmental, social and political factors on food security
Explain the need for national-level and farm-level biosecurity measures
Demonstrate safe practices when selecting and using technologies and production processes
Create written texts to explain and evaluate processes, challenges and solutions in agriculture systems and practice.

Agricultural systems and solutions

Investigate opportunities to design agricultural systems and solutions
Generate ideas to develop and manage solutions to identified agricultural needs
Design and conduct experiments and tests to formulate, modify and document solutions
Select and use technologies to record observations, manage data and develop solutions
Use a range of digital and communication technologies to present observations, data and solutions
Synthesise conclusions from experimentation, testing and data analysis
Create written texts to explain and evaluate agricultural solutions and production processes

Innovation and industry practices

Investigate and describe Australian agricultural production and industry trends
Explore agricultural innovations developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Assess factors affecting the economic viability of current and emerging agricultural industries by analysing data
Evaluate how research and innovation influence the development of agricultural practices and industries
Investigate the role of Agtech startups in developing agricultural systems and solutions
Describe factors affecting the implementation of innovative agricultural technologies and processes
Outline marketing strategies used in agricultural production
Explain factors that determine how agricultural products are marketed to consumers
Apply market research strategies to develop innovative agricultural products
Evaluate effects of value-adding when marketing agricultural products
Develop and communicate promotional materials to inform consumers of agricultural products and industries
Describe how cultural diversity in Australian society has influenced agricultural production
Analyse how agricultural industries may influence consumers and society
Investigate career opportunities in current and emerging agricultural industries
Use subject-specific terminology to describe agricultural technologies, processes and industries
Create written texts to describe relationships between society, innovation and agricultural production

Life Skills for Stages 4/5

Life Skills table of outcomes

Focus area	Life Skills for Stages 4/5
Plant production	AGTLS-APG-01 recognises plants or animals used for agricultural production AGTLS-APG-03 identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-PMP-01 plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01 participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-APG-02 demonstrates the safe treatment and care of animals or plants while engaging in agricultural production AGTLS-USE-01 uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-02 uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-PRA-01 identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-02 identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-IVT-01 recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-SAF-01 demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-COM-01 communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts AGTLS-IND-01 engages with community activities, careers and/or industries in technology
Animal production	AGTLS-APG-01 recognises plants or animals used for agricultural production AGTLS-APG-03 identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-PMP-01 plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01 participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-APG-02 demonstrates the safe treatment and care of animals or plants while engaging in agricultural production AGTLS-USE-01 uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-02 uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-PRA-01 identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-02 identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-IVT-01 recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-SAF-01 demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-COM-01 communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts AGTLS-IND-01 engages with community activities, careers and/or industries in technology
Agriculture systems and practice	AGTLS-APG-03 identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-PMP-01 plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01 participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-USE-01 uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-02 uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-PRA-01 identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-02 identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-ENV-01 identifies sustainable practices used in agricultural production AGTLS-IVT-01 recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-03 uses strategies to test processes or products AGTLS-SAF-01 demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-COM-01 communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts AGTLS-IND-01 engages with community activities, careers and/or industries in technology

Life Skills outcomes and content for Stage 4/5

Plant production

Outcomes

A student:

recognises plants or animals used for agricultural production AGTLS-APG-01
identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-APG-03
plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PMP-01
participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01
demonstrates the safe treatment and care of animals or plants while engaging in agricultural production AGTLS-APG-02
uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-01
uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-02
identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-01
identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-PRA-02
recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-IVT-01
demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-SAF-01
communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts AGTLS-COM-01
engages with community activities, careers and/or industries in technology AGTLS-IND-01

Related Stage 4/5 outcomes: AGT5-APG-01, AGT5-SAF-01, AGT5-USE-01, AGT5-PRA-01, AGT5-IVT-01, AGT5-COM-01

Content

Plants and their environment

Recognise plants produced in the local area
Identify common plants for farm or urban agriculture
Explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ plant-based enterprises
Explore a range of established plant enterprises
Select plant species for agricultural production
Identify different types of products that are derived from plants
Identify features of a plant
Identify environmental factors that affect plant growth
Recognise optimal soil conditions needed for plant growth
Participate in testing different characteristics of soils

Production

Recognise the production process of an agricultural product
Identify one or more steps in the production of an agricultural product
Recognise processes in plant production contexts
Carry out appropriate processes to grow and harvest plant products
Recognise technologies used in plant production
Prepare soils for a selected plant production system
Identify the impact of microorganisms and invertebrates on plant growth
Select tools and equipment for plant production
Use tools and equipment safely when working with plants
Apply propagation techniques using safe work practices
Use collaborative practices when producing plants
Observe changes that occur in plants as they grow
Measure plant growth using tools or technologies
Collect and record data of plant growth
Demonstrate appropriate procedures and techniques for handling and caring for plants
Identify common signs of a plant affected by pests or diseases
Recognise management practices that influence plant growth
Participate in community activities involving plant production
Create an oral, visual, written or multimodal text to communicate about technologies or processes in plant production

Post-harvest and marketing

Explore the steps from farm gate to consumer for plant products
Investigate technology used to trace plant products
Explore plant marketing strategies
Design a product or advertisement for plants
Identify features of quality produce for a plant enterprise
Explore ways that consumers influence plant markets

Animal production

Outcomes

A student:

recognises plants or animals used for agricultural production AGTLS-APG-01
identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-APG-03
plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PMP-01
participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01
demonstrates the safe treatment and care of animals or plants while engaging in agricultural production AGTLS-APG-02
uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-01
uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-02
identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-01
identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-PRA-02
recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-IVT-01
demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-SAF-01
communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts AGTLS-COM-01
engages with community activities, careers and/or industries in technology AGTLS-IND-01

Related Stage 4/5 outcomes: AGT5-APG-01, AGT5-SAF-01, AGT5-USE-01, AGT5-PRA-01, AGT5-IVT-01, AGT5-COM-01

Content

Animals and their environment

Recognise familiar agricultural animals
Explore the range and variety of farm animals
Explore a range of animal enterprises
Recognise ways to care for animals
Identify different products from agricultural animals
Observe animal behaviour in agricultural contexts
Investigate and identify animal nutritional needs
Measure quantities of feed for specific animals
Participate in feeding animals in a school agricultural context
Identify key features of a selected farm animal
Investigate sustainable wildlife enterprises developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

Production

Recognise animal welfare guidelines and regulations
Recognise a production process for an animal product
Identify one or more steps in the production process of an animal product
Identify technology used for animal production
Identify daily care requirements for an identified agricultural animal
Identify a suitable enclosure for an agricultural animal
Use appropriate tools and equipment safely when working with animals
Explore a range of techniques and management practices used to breed animals
Explore potential risks related to an animal production enterprise
Participate in rearing or managing an animal for animal production
Participate in appropriate procedures and techniques for handling, caring for and/or transporting agricultural animals
Use collaborative practices during animal production
Investigate an animal production cycle
Identify common signs of an animal affected by pests and/or diseases
Identify techniques used by producers to treat and prevent pests or diseases
Identify a range of pest-control products
Participate in community activities involving animal production
Create an oral, visual, written or multimodal text to communicate about technology or processes in animal production

Processing and marketing

Identify the supply chain of an animal enterprise
Investigate technologies used to trace animals and animal products
Follow appropriate processes to harvest animal products
Explore features of different grades of product derived from an animal enterprise
Explore marketing strategies used in an animal context
Design an advertisement for an animal product
Explore ways that consumers influence animal markets

Agriculture systems and practice

Outcomes

A student:

identifies factors that affect plant or animal growth or development AGTLS-APG-03
plans and manages agricultural production processes AGTLS-PMP-01
participates in agricultural production processes AGTLS-PRD-01
uses tools and equipment in agricultural processes AGTLS-USE-01
uses numbers and measurements in agricultural contexts AGTLS-USE-02
identifies steps in an agricultural production process AGTLS-PRA-01
identifies ways to market agricultural products AGTLS-PRA-02
identifies sustainable practices used in agricultural production AGTLS-ENV-01
recognises management systems or practices used in agricultural contexts AGTLS-IVT-01
uses strategies to test processes or products AGTLS-USE-03
demonstrates safe work practices in agricultural contexts AGTLS-SAF-01
communicates ideas and information in agricultural contexts AGTLS-COM-01
engages with community activities, careers and/or industries in technology AGTLS-IND-01

Related Stage 4/5 outcomes: AGT5-APG-01, AGT5-SAF-01, AGT5-USE-01, AGT5-PRA-01, AGT5-ENV-01, AGT5-IVT-01, AGT5-COM-01

Content

Land and enterprise management practices

Explore an agricultural production system
Investigate climate and weather factors that affect agriculture
Measure and collect weather-related or climate-related data
Identify potential risks to food and fibre production
Explore responsible and sustainable practices used in agricultural production
Investigate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ land management practices
Identify how land management practices affect the environment
Explore sustainability practices used in agricultural enterprises
Identify how decision-making in agricultural production affects sustainability
Recognise production techniques for an identified enterprise

Agricultural systems and solutions

Identify an agricultural problem or opportunity
Generate ideas for an agricultural solution to an identified problem or opportunity
Demonstrate safe practices when selecting and using tools and equipment
Use digital technologies to record observations, manage data and develop solutions
Collect and store data safely
Reach a solution using data and testing
Develop a solution to an identified problem or opportunity
Test the solution using experimentation or inquiry
Apply problem-solving skills to manage agricultural projects

Innovation and industry practices

Recognise agricultural products produced in Australia
Explore Australian innovations in agriculture
Locate opportunities in the local community to design or produce agricultural solutions
Investigate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ innovations in agriculture
Explore the influence of cultural diversity in Australian agricultural production
Identify ways to sell agricultural products to consumers
Create promotional materials for consumers about agricultural products
Use a range of graphical communication techniques to represent ideas
Identify technical skills related to agricultural industries
Explore community or employment opportunities in agricultural industries

Safety and enterprise skills for industry

Follow safety and warning signs when working with dangerous processes, materials, equipment or tools
Identify circumstances when safe processes and procedures may be required
Apply biosecurity measures
Identify risks and hazards and demonstrate safe work practices
Identify ways to promote awareness of risks and hazards in agricultural contexts
Follow safety regulations, standards and codes of practice in agricultural contexts
Investigate the safe storage and application of chemicals used in agricultural practices
Apply work health and safety (WHS) practices for agricultural industries
Demonstrate work and enterprise skills in agricultural contexts