Farrier Craftsmanship II

Course Name: Farrier Craftsmanship II

Prerequisites: Successful Completion of Farrier Craftsmanship I

Description:
Farrier Craftsmanship II is geared towards developing a working knowledge of the craft. Students work more hands-on. The emphasis of this class is on shoe shaping, leveling, and fitting the factory shoe. Students also begin using the forge to modify the factory shoes. Science class covers hoof diseases.

Weekly Topics:
Each week will include one day of theory and three days of practice. Using the horses from the school program will enable students to see the relationship between theory and practice. Theory will be based on the level of student progression using the text, Principles of Horse Shoeing by D. Butler. The weekly content categories include:

Week 1-2: Review of concepts and principles from Farrier Craftsmanship I - Introduction to Diseases of the hoof
Week 3-4: Diseases of the hoof: Laminitis
Week 5-6: Diseases of the hoof: Navicular Disease
Week 7: Different types of shoes and the classification of shoes: selection for soundness; selection for performance
Week 8-11: Forging techniques: including keg alterations; basics of handmade plates
Week 11-12: Specialized areas of shoeing: including performance for gaited horses, race horses and draft horses; Review and exams

Performance Objectives:
Following successful completion of Farrier Craftsmanship II, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a an understanding of more advanced concepts and principles of horseshoeing under ideal conditions
• Demonstrate knowledge of the following concepts from Farrier Craftsmanship I: Rebalancing and shoeing a straight, sound riding horse; the horse’s limbs; history and development of horseshoeing; the relationship between shoeing and conformation; showing for unevenness or lameness; and specialized shoeing
• Demonstrate knowledge of the following advanced concepts and describe their implications for the work of the farrier: diseases of the hoof; laminitis; navicular disease, different types & classifications of shoes; forging techniques; specialized areas of shoeing, such as performance for gaited horses, race horses, and draft horses
• Demonstrate the ability to perform routine horse shoeing and follow-up on school horses
• Describe appropriate approaches to the maintenance of school horses

Methods:
In order for students to acquire the knowledge and skills of Farrier Craftsmanship II, the instructor will use a variety of teaching methods including: expository learning, discussion, demonstration, & guided practice. Students will have extensive hands-on instruction using horses that are involved in the school program.

Evaluation:
Students will be evaluated on their knowledge & skills through teacher made tests - quizzes, mid-term test, and final exam, as well as student participation (horse handling and workmanship). Formative assessment and immediate feedback during lab activities will be used to guide the teaching/learning process and will allow students to monitor their progress throughout the course.