Chemistry

Chemistry is the study of the patterns, properties, and structure of matter. It is a survey course covering such topics as: matter classification; atomic theory and bonding; periodicity; nomenclature; formula stoichiometry; chemical reactions; phases of matter; acids, bases and solutions. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of the course and the mathematical aspects of Chemistry are emphasized throughout the course.

In addition to chemical and scientific literacy, the course also stresses effort, organization, good time-management skills, and the academic focus required of those taking courses after high school. Basic facts and skills learned or memorized early in the course are used later in the course. It includes deadlines and assumes learning is your “job” and your first priority. The course is designed with high levels of expectation and student responsibility; a “casual approach” toward studying may not be sufficient to receive your desired grade. Students have failed this course in the past.

The study and critical thinking skills used in Chemistry are applicable to many disciplines and is one reason Chemistry is a subject recommended by colleges and that admissions personnel look for it on high school transcripts.

Respect the learning process

  • learning occurs in small steps and takes time; you cannot learn simply by watching and listening
  • class time is used to introduce and develop an understanding of new material; mastery of the material requires time outside the classroom
  • read (including examples) with the objective of understanding
  • assignments are a vital 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
  • 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
  • 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

Classroom Expectations

Prompt

  • I am in the classroom when the bell rings.
  • I turn in my work on time.

Prepared

  • I bring my materials to class (no electronic devices/no food).
  • I do my assignments.
  • I dress appropriately.

Polite

  • I raise my hand before I speak.
  • I listen and speak respectfully to staff members and fellow students.
  • I allow others to express their opinions and beliefs.
  • I respect others’ personal space.

Productive

  • I participate actively in class.
  • I work with my team members on group assignments.
  • I complete my class assignments.

Proud

  • I take pride in myself, my work and my school.

Assessment Types

Quizzes & Tests–Quizzes (10 – 30 pts each) cover a portion of the unit and tests (35 – 100 pts each) cover an entire unit.

Lab Reports – 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 one schoolday late automatically lose 20 % of the maximum value and reports turned in more than one week late automatically lose 40% of their maximum value. Only a valid excuse obviates the penalty. (10-30 pts each)

Assignments – Worksheets based on recently discussed material/notes or reading summaries. Unless otherwise stated, an assignment is due two schooldays after it was assigned. Questions regarding the assignment should be asked the day prior to the due date, there may not be time to answer questions the day the assignment is due. Assignments turned in one schoolday late automatically lose 40 % of the maximum value and assignments turned in one or more weeks late automatically lose 80% of the maximum value. Only valid excuses obviate the penalty. (5 pts each)

Half Sheets – In class worksheets based on recently discussed material/notes. (2 pts each)

Participation–Up to two points a day may be earned for positive participation (attending class both physically and mentally). 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 (2 pts), missing assignment (1 pt), and tardy to class (1 pt). 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. (~ 90 pts)

Bonus- Throughout the grading period there may be opportunities to gain bonus points by turning in assignments early. There is also a bonus sheet (graded very rigorously) at the end of the grading period. Typically, bonus point opportunities can improve a grade somewhere between 3-7 %.

Nine Week Grading Policy

A point system is used. Each assessment is assigned a number of points and at the end of the grading period the number of points possible and the number of points received is 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).

Notes

Class notes - Notes includes things written on the board/overhead, such as definitions, procedures, and clarifying examples. They also include things emphasized verbally, but not written down. Notes should be in chronological order and be capable of being read by others. If a class is missed, the student is responsible for getting the notes from a classmate. There is no excuse for not having notes. Since some quizzes may be open notebook, photocopies of notes are not acceptable, they must be hand written. Although the notebook is not graded, a student may lose participation points by not taking notes.

Handouts - Handouts should be located in the notebook and may be used in open notebook quizzes at the discretion of the teacher.

In selecting a course a student is making a commitment to the goals, guidelines, and objectives of the course. Your signatures attest to this commitment and that you have read this handout and agree to abide by it.

______Student Signature ______Date

______Parent/Guardian Signature______Date