Quick Tips for SAE

SAEs are a key part of any agricultural education program and a great chance for students to use their talents, explore areas of interest, and gain hands-on experience. Trying to help students get started? Here are some tips to share with your students as they navigate the world of SAEs.

1. Take ownership! YOU control your SAE. You design it, plan it, and set your goals.
   
   
2. Find a teacher, mentor, employer, or parent/guardian to supervise your SAE. Be open to their guidance and assistance.
   
   
3. Ready to begin? You can start simple, with a Foundational SAE such as Career Exploration and Planning, Employability Skills for College and Career Readiness, Personal Financial Management and Planning, Workplace Safety, or Agricultural Literacy. 
   
   It's all about exploration! Don't hesitate to investigate a variety of opportunities over time. Or, if you know your passion, pursue it! 
   
   💡Pro Tip for Teachers: turn to the 2027© Small Animal Science and Care or other titles in our line of Agriculture resources to explore Foundational SAEs and Immersion SAEs. Free samples are available!
   
   
4. Planning is key! Your SAE is more easily managed if you plan it in a series of steps.
   1. Investigate SAE opportunities and find one that feels right.
   2. Plan your SAE by setting goals and describing how your SAE will take place—who, what, where, when, why, and how.
   3. Share your SAE ideas with your agriculture teacher. Coordinate with a parent, guardian, mentor, or employer (if a job is part of your SAE).
   4. Keep records of your SAE in a written or electronic record book. In addition to setting goals, you'll likely create a business plan and keep a budget.
   5. Reflect on your SAE and analyze how your SAE is working, re-evaluate your goals, and summarize your success.
      
      

Here are a few examples:

Mobile Dog Groomer—click on the image to enlarge.

Rabbit Breeding—click on the image to enlarge.

Mealworm Farm—click on the image to enlarge.

Good luck with the SAE process! G-W is here to support you and your students in pursuing their SAE for All goals. Remember to turn to G-W for our full line of Agriculture titles, featuring instructor resources and student support materials. 

Photo Credits:
Thumbnail: SeventyFour/iStock.com
Chapter Images: Goodheart-Willcox Publisher