Chemistry & Honors Chemistry

Course Descriptions: 

    Chemistry - This is a college preparatory course win an emphasis on the experimental development of basic concepts through laboratory investigations and the mathematical expression of laboratory findings.  The course is designed to develop an appreciation of chemistry as a creative pursuit of knowledge and to enhance scientific literacy.

    Honors Chemistry - This is an extensive college preparatory course in chemistry with emphasis on the experimental development of basic concepts through laboratory investigations and the mathematical expression of laboratory findings.  The course is designed to develop an appreciation of chemistry as a creative pursuit of knowledge and to enhance scientific literacy.  A strong emphasis is place on higher-level lab work and independent study.

Textbooks:

Classroom Policies:

GRADING POLICY

Grades will be distributed among homework, class work, lab, quizzes, and chapter tests.  There will be a comprehensive Midyear and final exam.  Tests and Quizzes will count 60 % of the term grade.  Labs will count 25 % of the term grade.  Homework will count 15 % of the term grade. 

CLASS EXPECTATIONS

    A student's daily work and homework is extremely important.  Students are expected to complete daily/homework assignments on time and  participate in class in a positive manner by demonstrating each of the following:

1. Having book, pencil, paper, and notebook in class daily 

2. Putting out the best effort daily (taking notes when appropriate listening intently at other times)

3. Behaving in a mature and studious manner 

4. Participating in lab properly 

5. Presence in the classroom, the entire class period.

  CLASSROOM RULES

1. Be in you seat before the bell rings and have all class material ready.

2. Observe all safety procedures.

3. Observe all rules in your Student Handbook.

4. Individual grades or problems will not be discussed during class time.  If you have a question about a grade or class procedure; please see me after class.

  TEACHING STYLE

    In 32 years of teaching high school science, I have never had a "student" to fail my class.  I define a student as one who; comes to class every day, completes all assignments, is eager to learn, and if needed is willing to stay after school for extra help.  If you fit the above description of a student, I guarantee that you will pass.

      A precise vocabulary is the foundation of any science.  The terms and phrases that I use in class must convey the same meaning (or image) to every student.  Occasionally we'll have philosophical discussions, and your vocabulary must also be precise.

      The main part of this course is solving mathematical word problems involving molecules, chemicals, and reactions.  Any math technique that you've learned in your math classes is fair game on the Chapter Tests.  I will attempt to go over, in detail, any mathematical techniques that we use.  Just as your history teacher expects you to "read at grade level" (10th - 12th), I expect you to do "math at grade level".