COURSE DESCRIPTION:

Chemistry is the study of matter and change. This course is designed to orient the student with the fundamentals of physical and chemical sciences as well as develop critical thinking skills that will be useful in other areas of life. 

Topics include:

·         Safety and procedures in a laboratory setting

·         Physical properties of matter

·         Chemical properties of matter

·         Conservation and transfer of energy

·         Interactions of energy and matter

·         Organic and biochemical processes

The course will be aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Materials Required:

·         Pencil or Pen

·         Notebook

·         Eraser

·         Folder for notes and handouts.

·         PowerUp Laptop

 COURSE EXPECTATIONS:

A. Tests and Quizzes - Tests and quizzes will be used to assess student progress on concepts being studied.

B. Assignments and Homework - Students will be assigned classwork on a daily basis. Supplemental homework will also be assigned. Students will also have an opportunity to earn a class participation grade that reflects effort and time on task in class.

C. Make-up - Make-up work is due no later than the beginning of class on the third day following a tardy or an absence. Excused absences may warrant longer time. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain make-up work from the teacher. If you are not present during a laboratory exercise, your make up may consist of an alternate assignment to be completed at home.

D. Extra Credit and Enrichment - Extra credit points may be earned only by participating in selected activities assigned and approved by the instructor.

E. Notebook and Supplies - Students are required to maintain a separate, neatly organized chemistry notebook. Students are required to bring to class each day: #2 pencils, lined notebook paper, chemistry notebook and all handouts

F. Extra Help Opportunities - Tutorials will be held on Fridays from 3:15 to 4:30 pm and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Be sure to schedule your time with me in advance if you have plans to attend the tutorials on either day. You will be expected to arrive no later than 15 minutes after the start time. If you do not show up by the end of the grace period, the tutorial will be cancelled for that day.

G. Laboratory Activities - Read and study all laboratory activities to familiarize yourself with the purpose and procedures of the exercise. You must learn and follow all safety rules. ANY SAFETY VIOLATION and/or LACK OF PREPARATION during laboratory activities may result in a failing grade for the activity.

 GENERAL CLASS BEHAVIOR:

·         To request permission to leave your seat or to speak, raise your hand to be recognized by your instructor.

·         Food, drinks, candy, and chewing gum are not allowed in a lab setting.

·         Students are not allowed to use cell phones while in class except for educational purposes.

EVALUATION

A. Criteria for Arriving at Student Grades - The student’s grade will be based on a weighted average with test grades counting 60% and daily grades counting 40%. Quizzes and labs can be designated into either category depending on their importance.

B. Explanation of Student Grades:

90% - 100% Excellent

80% - 89%  Above Average

70% - 79% Average

69% and below- Failing

I- Incomplete