list the five ffa degrees and their requirements. discovery degree-

Olvin

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11-01-2025

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The Future Farmers of America (FFA) offers a structured progression of degrees, each representing increasing levels of commitment, leadership, and agricultural knowledge. These degrees—Discovery, Greenhand, Chapter, State, and American—provide a framework for personal and professional growth within the organization. This guide outlines the requirements for each degree.

1. Discovery Degree: Igniting the FFA Journey

The Discovery Degree serves as the foundational level of FFA membership, welcoming new members and introducing them to the organization's core values and activities. It's designed to be accessible and engaging, focusing on building a basic understanding of FFA and its potential.

Requirements: The specific requirements for the Discovery Degree can vary slightly depending on the local chapter's bylaws, but generally include:

• Membership: Active membership in the FFA.
• FFA Orientation: Participation in an FFA orientation or introductory program. This typically involves learning about the FFA mission, creed, motto, and emblem.
• Basic Knowledge: Demonstrating a fundamental understanding of FFA's history, structure, and activities. This might be assessed through quizzes, presentations, or discussions.
• Participation: Attending a specified number of chapter meetings and/or activities.
• Completion of an Agricultural Activity: Engaging in some form of agricultural activity, which could range from a classroom project to a hands-on experience on a farm or in a garden. This helps to establish a connection to the agricultural roots of the organization.

2. Greenhand Degree: Cultivating Agricultural Understanding

The Greenhand Degree builds upon the Discovery Degree, emphasizing increased involvement and a deeper understanding of agriculture. Greenhand members begin to actively participate in chapter activities and demonstrate a growing commitment to FFA.

Requirements: In addition to fulfilling Discovery Degree requirements, Greenhand Degree requirements typically include:

• Increased Chapter Participation: More significant involvement in chapter activities, meetings, and events than required for the Discovery Degree. This demonstrates a greater commitment to the organization.
• Agricultural Proficiency: Showing progress in developing agricultural skills and knowledge. This might involve completing a specific agricultural project, participating in a supervised agricultural experience (SAE), or taking related courses.
• FFA Knowledge: Demonstrating a more comprehensive understanding of FFA's history, programs, and opportunities. This often involves participation in educational workshops or presentations.
• Creed Knowledge: Reciting or explaining the FFA Creed, showcasing a deeper understanding of the organization's values.

3. Chapter Degree: Active Chapter Involvement and Leadership

The Chapter Degree signifies a substantial commitment to the FFA, marked by significant participation in chapter activities and developing leadership skills. Members at this level often take on leadership roles within their chapter.

Requirements: To earn a Chapter Degree, members must have achieved the Greenhand Degree and:

• Leadership Roles: Holding an officer position or demonstrating leadership in chapter activities and projects.
• Extensive Chapter Participation: Active involvement in a broad range of chapter activities, such as fundraising, community service, and competitions.
• SAE Progress: Continued progress in their supervised agricultural experience (SAE), showcasing dedication to agricultural learning and experience.
• Knowledge of Parliamentary Procedure: Demonstrating a working knowledge of parliamentary procedure to conduct meetings effectively.

4. State Degree: Demonstrating Excellence Across the State

The State FFA Degree represents a significant achievement, recognizing outstanding contributions to the FFA at both the chapter and state levels. This degree acknowledges a higher level of commitment, leadership, and agricultural achievement.

Requirements: The requirements for the State FFA Degree are rigorous and typically include:

• Chapter Degree: Holding a Chapter Degree.
• Proficient SAE: Maintaining a successful and progressive supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program.
• Leadership and Participation: Demonstrating significant leadership roles and participation at both the chapter and state levels.
• Community Service: Active participation in community service projects.
• Academic Achievement: Maintaining a high level of academic achievement. Specific GPA requirements vary by state.
• State Officer Nomination: Possibly involvement in the nomination process for state-level offices.

5. American Degree: National Recognition of Exceptional Achievement

The American FFA Degree represents the highest level of achievement in the FFA organization. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding contributions to FFA, agriculture, and the community at the national level. Only a small percentage of FFA members earn this prestigious award.

Requirements: The requirements for the American Degree are extremely demanding and include:

• State FFA Degree: Holding a State FFA Degree.
• Extensive SAE Program: Maintaining a substantial and highly successful SAE program.
• Leadership and Service: Exceptional leadership demonstrated at multiple levels, from the chapter to the state level, along with significant community service contributions.
• High Academic Standing: Maintaining a high GPA throughout high school.
• Financial Responsibility: Demonstrating responsible management of finances related to their SAE.

This detailed outline provides a general overview of the requirements for each FFA degree. Specific requirements may vary slightly depending on individual state and chapter bylaws. Always consult your local FFA chapter advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information.