NYSTCE Agriculture

The NYSTCE Agriculture test measures your knowledge according to the New York State Academic Standards. Success on this test indicates that you are qualified to teach curriculum related to agriculture in the New York State public school system. The test content is drawn from these subareas: Agricultural Education and Career Development (12% of the exam); Plant Science (20%); Animal Science (13%); Agricultural Business Management, Economics, and Marketing (13%); Agricultural Mechanics and Technology (16%); Agriculture and the Environment (16%); and an Agricultural Education and Career Development constructed-response question (10%). The test consists of approximately 90 multiple-choice questions and one constructed-response question.

NYSTCE Agriculture Practice Questions

1. What substance is created when nitrogen-rich manure is decomposed by bacteria?

A: Ammonia
B: Neon
C: Silicon
D: Potassium

2. Organic matter that can be converted into energy by a biological or chemical process is known as _____.

A: biostock
B: biodiesel
C: biomass
D: biome

3. What is the name for the maximum number of animals that a farm can support without damaging itself?

A: Farm load
B: Maximal site-load
C: Frontage limit
D: Carrying capacity

4. What kind of erosion is characterized by the formation of a number of small channels carrying soil to a body of water?

A: Sheet erosion
B: Rill erosion
C: Gully erosion
D: Plane erosion

5. Which of the following is NOT an alternative fuel?

A: Petroleum
B: Ethanol
C: Biodiesel
D: Methanol

Answer Key

1. A. Ammonia is created when bacteria causes nitrogen-rich manure to decompose. Excessive ammonia can be dangerous to humans and livestock.
2. C. Biomass is the term used to describe organic matter that can be converted into energy through a biological or chemical process. Examples of biomass include animal waste, wood, and agricultural crops.
3. D. The maximum number of animals that a farm can support without damaging the farm is known as its carrying capacity. Most farmers try to carry as many animals as possible without damaging the long-term interests of the farm.
4. B. Rill erosion is typically found in fields that have recently been cultivated.
5. A. The use of alternative fuels reduces pollution and the dependence of the United States on foreign oil.