Chemistry

Instructor: Mrs. Randi Gamble, email:

The Class

This introductory course gives a general overview of the study of molecules and their interactions. Chemistry is a difficult course in that most of it is problem solving and there is a good bit of memorization. We will cover the essential topics to give you a firm foundation for classes you may take later and for the chemistry you experience in everyday life. The course will attempt to give you a deeper understanding of the science processes that go on around you. This class will include oral work, written work, group projects, outside assignments, laboratory experiences and tests.

Materials:

Textbook – Chemistry: Matter and Change

Scientific calculator

Three ring binder dedicated to this class only

Grading Formula:

Major Grades– 75%

Minor Grades - 25%

Tests

Tests are counted as major grades. Tests can be made up after school on Thursdays in the cafeteria. You will have one Thursday following the absence to comply. If you do not make up your test by the Thursday you are supposed to, you will be placed on the special study hall list and will have to take it at lunch. You will only have one lunch period to complete the test. So, if you don’t finish, those points WILL count against you.

Quizzes

Once a week you will have a poly atomic ion quiz that will count as a major grade. This will happen each week as a pop quiz for the duration of the school year. So it is in your best interest to learn them early. You must know the name, symbol, and charge of each ion. They are on page 224 in your textbook.

Labs and Lab Reports

Lab Reports are counted as major grades. Labs must be made up within a week of the lab and you must arrange a time with me to do it. Late lab reports will be docked one letter grade for each day it is late.

Online Videos

The links to toutorial videos will be posted on my staff webpage: You can find it on the school website by clicking high school, then staff, then Mrs. Gamble, then Pre-AP chemistry. If you are struggling with your homework or missed a day of notes, this is a good resource to get caught up.

Homework

Homework is counted as a minor grade. Homework is due when I say it is due AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS. Late minor work is not accepted.

Chemistry Notebooks:

Each student MUST keep a notebook. This notebook will count as a minor grade and will be turned in at the end of each nine weeks. Random notebook checks will also occur.

Remind 101

If you subscribe to my remind101 class page you will receive reminders about assignments that are due and upcoming tests. To subscribe text @rgamb to 81010.

Makeup work

It is your responsibility to obtain your make-up work from me. If you missed a day of notes you need to get them from a fellow student. Makeup work will be due according to the number of days you miss. For example if you miss 3 days you have 3 days to turn in your work

Cheating

Cheating and/or plagiarism will not be tolerated. Cheating will result in a zero for that test, quiz, report or homework assignment and you will be turned in to the office.

Study Habits

Chemistry is a demanding subject. It is best to maintain a steady pace of study. It is usually much more effective to study regularly and consistently rather than trying to cram large amounts of material just before the exam. Most of the concepts taught in the course build on one another and require time and practice before they can be used comfortably on exams. It is therefore important to ensure that you understand the material as it is presented and not wait until the day before the exam.

Tutoring

Chemistry tutoring is offered in the library Wednesdays after school from 3:30-4:00. If you need help you should take advantage of this free service. If Wednesday is not good for you come see me and we will make other arrangements.

Classroom Expectations:

  • The bell – You are expected to be in your seats, quietly working with the proper materials (book, pen, paper, notes, homework, handouts, AR book, scientific calculator, etc.) when the bell rings. If you do not have all of your materials you will be counted tardy. Your phone cannot be used as a calculator during class. If you do not get started on bellwork immediately after the bell rings you will be counted tardy.
  • Work – You are expected to do your own work, or if you are in groups you are expected to be a contributing member of that group. If you cannot pull your weight or are preventing others from doing their job, you will be given an alternative assignment to be completed in solitude
  • Respect – We WILL respect others and their property. Profanity and/or derogatory remarks will not be tolerated.
  • No drinks besides screw tops allowed.
  • No CD players, cell phones, mp3 players, kindles, laptops, etc. are allowed in my class. If I discover you using one or even if I just see it out of your bag or pocket I will take it up.