AP Chemistry Expectations
AP Chemistry is structured for students considering a science or science related career. It covers many of the topics encountered in the initial two general chemistry courses taken by science students in their first year of college. In addition to providing a stronger, more rigorous, and in-depth introduction to the fundamental concepts of Chemistry, it involves hands-on laboratory work and mathematical skills encountered in Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II.
AP Chemistry is designed to be roughly equivalent to two college introductory chemistry courses. As such, the course requires one to be responsible, organized, disciplined, and focused academically. It includes deadlines and assumes learning is your “job” and your first priority. A “casual approach” to the course may not be enough to receive a passing grade.
Class Rules
Respect the learning process
· be prepared
· be seated when the tardy bell rings and have book, paper, and pencil/pen ready
· expect to take notes and to have an assignment every day
· do the assignments on time, don't get behind
· don't wait to the last minute to study
· class time is used to introduce and develop understanding of new material; mastery of the material requires time outside the classroom
· read (including examples) with the objective of understanding
· assignments are a tool for mastering new knowledge, skills, and concepts
· being able to "follow" how someone does something is not the same as being able to do it yourself
· understanding is not always instantaneous; learn from mistakes, if one way of studying is not working try another
· you are responsible for your own learning; seek help (help is available most days after school)
· Chem-is-try: chemistry is a challenging subject, it takes time and honest effort; expect to work and study
Respect the classroom
· refrain from abusing school properties (books, desks, lab equipment, etc.)
· keep your area neat and clean (throw trash in the proper waste container at the end of the period)
Respect others
· be courteous and understanding
· avoid being disruptive or causing distractions (talking, being unprepared, etc.)
Respect yourself
· handle yourself maturely; have a positive attitude and outlook; don't "give up"
· you can handle the material, it is a only a matter of time and effort
Nine Week Grading Policy
A point system is used. Each assessment is assigned a number of points (e.g., each homework is worth 4 points) and at the end of the grading period the number of points possible and the number of points received are totaled. The ratio of total points received to total points possible determines your percentage. The school-wide grading scale determines the letter grade (90 - 100:A, 80 - 89:B, 70 - 79:C, 60 - 69:D, 50 - 59:F). There is no curve.
Assessment Types
Tests - Chapter and/or multichapter tests (tests may include an open text/notebook multiple choice take home portion). Lab related questions may be included. (30-100 pts each)
Quizzes - Announced and unannounced. (10-30 pts each)
Lab - Reports and/or presentations about work done in the lab. The lab assessment may include a portion based on technique, safety, and preparation. Unless otherwise stated, lab reports are due at the beginning of the first double period of the following week. Reports turned in up to one week late automatically lose 20 % of the maximum value and reports not turned in by this time are given a zero as a grade. Only valid excuses obviate the penalty. See handout for details on writing lab reports. (10-30 pts each)
Assignments - Text questions and/or worksheets. Unless otherwise stated, an assignment is due two schooldays after it was assigned. Assignments turned in one or two schooldays late automatically lose 50 % of the maximum value and assignments not turned in by at this time are given a zero as a grade. Only valid excuses obviate the penalty. (2 pts each)
Participation - Attendance and positive participation every day (participation points are not available for school excused or doctor excused absences: these absences reduce the total possible number of class participation points). Participation points are not available for school excused or doctor excused absences: these absences reduce the total possible number of class participation points. Participation points are lost for each absence or tardy to class. Positive participation includes, but is not limited to, such things as being prepared for class and lab, attentiveness, taking notes (see below), using in class time for study and assignments, following class rules, not being disruptive, etc. (~45 pts)
Corrections - Credit received for test and quiz corrections. Corrections must be presented in a neat and orderly manner to receive the maximum points possible. See handout for details on corrections.
Bonus - Throughout the grading period, there may be opportunities to gain bonus points. These opportunities usually involve "hard" problems added to an assignment and, possibly, a bonus sheet (graded very rigorously).
Notes
Notes include things written on the board (in particular procedures and clarifying examples), handouts and things emphasized verbally. Notes should be in chronological order and be capable of being read by others. The student is responsible for getting missed notes from a classmate. There is no excuse for not having notes.