Secondary vocational-technical education programs in Mississippi are faced with many challenges resulting from sweeping educational reforms at the national and state levels. Schools and teachers are increasingly being held accountable for providing true learning activities to every student in the classroom. This accountability is measured through increased requirements for mastery and attainment of competency as documented through both formative and summative assessments. The courses in this document reflect the statutory requirements as found in Section 37-3-49, Mississippi Code of 1972, as amended (Section 37-3-46). In addition, this curriculum reflects guidelines imposed by federal and state mandates (Laws, 1988, ch. 487, Section 14; Laws, 1991, ch. 423, Section 1; Laws, 1992, ch. 519, Section 4 effective from and after July 1, 1992; Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act IV, 2007; and No Child Left Behind Act of 2001). Concepts of Agriscience is the foundation course for the Agricultural and Environmental Science and Technology program. All students must complete Concepts of Agriscience before being allowed to enroll in the advanced courses of the program. The course serves as an introduction to the sciences, technologies, and applied practices of the progressive agriculture/agriscience industry. Emphasis is on an active learning environment enriched with technology and science-based applications. The course focuses on providing an opportunity for students to explore the different fields of the agricultural sciences and develop foundation skills and knowledge needed for advancement in other courses and programs. Concepts of Agriscience may be taught to students in grade 9 or 10. The course carries one Carnegie unit of credit that can count as a science elective credit for high school graduation. Appended are: (1) Suggested Rubrics, Checklists, and Activities; (2) 21st Century Skills Standards; (3) Mississippi Academic Standards; (4) ACT College Readiness Standards; (5) Pathway Content Standards; and (6) National Educational Technology Standards for Students. A list of suggested references is provided for each unit.