Course Descriptions

AG MECHANICS PATHWAY

INTRODUCTION TO AG MECHANICS

Year Course ● 10 credits ● Grades 9-10             (INTRODUCTORY, YR. 1)

Lab Donation: Recommended                                                        

This course is designed to introduce students to the Agriculture Mechanics Pathway taught at Ripon High School. The curriculum is designed to provide a basic understanding of the following areas: Personal and shop safety, measuring, woodworking, cold metal working, electricity, Shield Metal Arc welding, oxy-fuel welding and cutting, and understanding basic small gas engines. Students will have the opportunity to experience the hands-on learning atmosphere while reinforcing classroom skills in the shop or lab. Upon completion of this introductory course, students will have the opportunity to enroll in either Ag Welding or Small Engines.

Power Mechanics Specialization

AG SMALL ENGINES/POWER SYSTEMS

Year Course ● 10 credits ● Grades 10-11                                       (CONCENTRATE, Yr. 2)

Lab Donation: Recommended                                                           CSU “G” Requirement

Prerequisite: Intro to Ag Mechanics with a grade of “C” or better.      UC “G” Requirement                                               

This course will introduce the student to the development and use of energy sources, power systems, and small gas engines. Students will be given the opportunity to explore and develop skills in the following areas: Part ID, measurement, disassembly, assembly, electrical systems, fuel systems, tune-up, and troubleshooting. There will be a heavy emphasis on shop safety, the development of positive work habits, and practical experience through learning by doing.

DIESEL MECHANICS

Year Course ● 10 credits ● Grades 11-12                                   (CAPSTONE, Yr. 3)

Lab Donation: Recommended                                                           UC “G” Requirement

Prerequisite: Small Engines with a grade of “C” or better.           CSU “G” Requirement

                                                                                                     Fulfills third-year Math requirement                   

This course will advance students’ knowledge of power systems by focusing on three areas: modern diesel engines (to include the principles and theories of running, testing, diagnosing, disassembling, and reassembling components, systems, and engines), hydraulic circuitry as applied to mobile hydraulic systems in agriculture and heavy machinery (emphasizing the component design and operation), electrical as applied to heavy machinery (to include theory, troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair with the aid of technical information and electrical test equipment). This course is designed for those who are interested in a career or advanced training in agricultural equipment or related fields.

Fabrication Specialization

AG WELDING 

Year Course ● 10 credits ● Grades 10-11                                                                        (CONCENTRATE, Yr. 2)   

Lab Donation: Recommended                                                   UC “G” Requirement

Prerequisite: Intro to Ag Mechanics with a grade of “C” or better.    CSU “G” Requirement

Agriculture Welding integrates math, science, writing, and mechanics through hands-on learning. Key topics include shop use, measurement, project planning, cutting techniques, welding methods, and career exploration. Students will apply theoretical knowledge to projects, utilizing various resources for written and oral presentations. Each unit builds on prior learning, culminating in a final project incorporating multiple skills. Grading includes participation in FFA activities and maintaining a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) program.