Independent AP Chemistry Syllabus

Earth Science II/ Astronomy Syllabus

Instructor:Mrs. Theresa S. Price

Primary Textbook:

Chaisson, Eric and McMillan, Steve. 2007. Astronomy: A Beginner’s Guide to the Universe (5th Edition). New Jersey, USA: Pearson Prentice Hall.

Chemistry (4410) with End of Course SOL TEST

Grade Level(s): 10-12 Credit: 1 unit

Chemistry is designed to provide students with a detailed understanding of the interaction of matter and energy. This interaction is investigated through the use of laboratory techniques, manipulation of chemical quantities, and problem-solving applications. Scientific methodology will be employed in experimental and analytical investigations, and concepts will be illustrated with practical applications. Technology including graphing calculators and computers may be used. Students will understand and use safety precautions with chemicals and equipment. The course emphasizes qualitative and quantitative study of substances and the changes that occur in them. In meeting the chemistry course requirements, students will be encouraged to share their ideas, use the language of chemistry, discuss problem-solving techniques, and communicate effectively. The course is designed as preparation for college chemistry or other advanced sciences. The SOL test for Chemistry is given in this course.

A complete list of classroom and safety rules and procedures can be found at my web site, You may also access the school website at

Classroom Supplies

Scientific Calculator

Marbled Notebook for homework

Notebook for notes (student preference)

1-roll of Paper Towels

1-box of Tissues (optional)

Distilled Water (optional)

AAA Batteries (optional)

Dry Erase Pens (optional)

Proper Laboratory Attire

Safety in the laboratory is the #1 priority for students, teachers, and parents. Students are required to dress appropriately for indicated lab days. To permit students to participate in laboratory activities, students and parents are required to read and sign in agreement the “Bedford County Science Student Safety Guidelines.” Advanced Chemistry students are required to arrive to class wearing closed-toed shoes and long pants (no shorts or skirts) on the day of a lab. For safety reasons students not appropriately dressed for lab activities will not be permitted to participate, which may be reflected in their grade.

Grading Policies

Note that the point value assigned to each task is NOT a % of grade but the value of each task individually. This grading scale is in accordance with Bedford County policy on grading scales in ALL courses. Progress reports will be sent according to Bedford County policy or when specifically requested by the parent or student. Grades will be updated by Monday morning in Powerschool. Please contact the school if you have not yet received your Parent Portal login information.

Assignments will be posted on the boardand the class web-site. Late work will not be accepted except for an excused absence.

ALL assignments and lectures are posted online. It is the student’s responsibility to review the schedule for missed material. Copies of all handouts are located in the Chemistry Folder on the wall in the front of the room. Students must make arrangements on the day they return to school from an excused absence to make up work based on BCPS Policy.

Absent 1-2 days, you will have 3 school days to make up work.

Absent 3-5 days, you will have 6 school days to make up work.

Absent 6+ days, you will need to talk with me to establish a date for the work to

be completed.

Homework assignments will only receive credit if submitted on time. If you anticipate any difficulties with meeting an assignment deadline, you must notify me BEFORE the due date. No credit will begiven for late homework. If you miss an assigned test or laboratory experiment, you must arrange with me a time before or after school to make it up.

The following grading breakdown is a guideline for the approximate weight of each assignment. Please note that Bedford County grading policy states that no single assignment can count for more than 25% of the overall grade.

Grading Breakdown

Summative: Tests70% of the final grade

Formative: Quizzes, Labs, Classwork20% of the final grade

Homework10% of the Final Grade

Grading Scale (%)

Classroom Expectations

Students are expected to follow the rules and regulations set forth in the Jefferson Forest High School Student Code of Conduct. These rules will be strictly enforced. Students are also expected to follow the safety guidelines for the laboratory. Classroom rules have been developed for both academic and conduct. These rules are posted in the classroom and on the web-site for review.

• RESPECT; Respect the teacher, your fellow students, the classroom and materials. We will use the parliamentary procedure in the classroom for open discussions and debates. At all other times, the instructor shall not be interrupted;
• Students will follow all safety rules. These rules comply with state and federal guidelines. Do not touch anything that is not yours or until instructed (including computers and equipment).
• Students will complete all work individually and on time. All homework is due when the tardy bell rings. If it is not turned in at that time, it is considered to be late.
• Work for other classes may NOT be completed in my classroom. All other work will be confiscated and returned at the END of class.
• Be prepared for class; bring the necessary supplies, be seated before the tardy bell rings. This also means that all electronic devices must be silenced and properly stowed away in a purse, pocket or book bag. Lecture begins as soon as the tardy bell rings. Students are expected to take notes every day. If you are absent, you may ask me for a copy of the notes AT THE END OF CLASS.
• All book bags, purses and other items must be placed on the floor or at a lab station and may not be left on the student desk.
• NO food or drinks allowed in the laboratory. This is a state law. Bottled water or water in a clear container with a spill proof top are allowed to be on the desk.

Students AND parents, when you have read and understand the materials and requirements of myscience class, please go to the following web address and complete the survey:

Course Timeline: