Course Syllabus

Course Title:  Chemistry – Matter and Change

Level: Honors 

Instructor: Dr. Kaczmarek

Description:

            The objective for this course is to allow students to develop an appreciation for science and the chemical properties that govern our world. Students will spend time examining the physical structure of matter, how this matter interacts through chemical processes, and the role of energy in these interactions. Students will also develop an appreciation for the application of Chemistry in our society. Experiments, application activities, problem solving, and group decision-making are a central part of this course. Nightly homework focuses on reviewing class notes, applying concepts learned in class, and laboratory reports. Students in this course should have completed a year of science and have the recommendation of their grade nine science teacher.

Course Sequence:

Sequence subject to change to better to accommodate for students and schedule.

Semester 1:

Chapter 2: The Nature of Matter

Chapter 3: Atomic Structure

Chapter 4: Nuclear Chemistry

Chapter 5: Electrons in Atoms

Chapter 6: The Periodic Table

Chapter 7: Chemical Bonds

Chapter 8: Chemical Equations

Chapter 9: The Mole

Semester 2:

Chapter 10: Stoichiometry

Chapter 11: Molecular Compounds

Chapter 12: Intermolecular Forces

Chapter 13: Gases

Chapter 14: Solutions

Chapter 15: Chemical Kinetics and Equilibrium

Chapter 16: Acids and Bases

 

 

Student Engagement Expectations:

  • Student engagement this year is going to be more important than ever as we navigate the changing schedule and landscape.  Communication and patience are the most important elements!  Students should reach out whenever they need additional support.  Please also be patient with yourselves and with Dr. K!  We will learn how to manage this together.  

Hybrid Class Model:

    • Students must adhere to established safety protocols at all times while in the classroom and building.
    • Students should bring laptops, notebook or binder, pencil/pen, and safety goggles to the class daily.    

Remote Model:

    • Students will report to zoom class on time when they are scheduled.  
    • Students should remain engaged while participating in zoom lessons.  This might mean taking notes, responding to questions, or engaging in a class discussion.
    • Any asynchronous assignments should be completed during the class time unless otherwise indicated.
    • Communicate, communicate, communicate!!!  Students are expected to reach out when they hit roadblocks.  There will be MANY.  Please check in when you need support!

 

Required Course Materials:

Laptop and something to write with

  • While most work this year will be completed through the computer or online, we will need to write or draw some items in class and remotely.  Please have access to paper and pencil (or pen) at all times.  Remember, sharing or borrowing is not allowed!  

Headphones or Earbuds:

  • There may be a lot happening in the classrooms with in person cohort and the remote cohort operating at the same times.  Students must have headphones with them whenever they attend in person Chemistry class.

Three Ring Binder

  • Handouts and notes should be kept in a binder. All material for the year should be organized. You will need it.

Goggles

  • To limit shared equipment it is recommended that all students have access to a personal pair of goggles for use in the lab.   When in person labs are possible, students are required to wear them at all times in the lab area.  Goggles have been purchased by the district for all students!  Thank you Wellesley!  These will be available in early October.  

Textbook

  • Students will be provided with the van Geel textbook and workbook online and once we start in person you will be given a hardcopy to keep.
  • In addition students will be provided with the Chemistry: Matter and Change. textbook if they wish. Students will be given the option to take a hard copy of the textbook or access to an online version (or both!). Students should not bring the hardcopy textbook to class daily.  Students must return their textbook in June at the completion of the course or pay for a replacement.  The cost of this book is $100.  

Scientific Calculator

  • The subject of Chemistry is often very math-based. You should bring a calculator daily. Graphing Calculators, cell phones, or other electronic devices may not always be permitted.  Again, please remember, equipment cannot be shared or borrowed.

Grading Policy:

            The final grade for Honors Chemistry will be calculated according to the following breakdown.  Given the uncertainty with the schedule this year, grade weights may shift to better support students.

Item Weight
Semester 1 50 %
Semester 2 50 %
Final Exam / Experience TBA
Overall Grade 100%

 

Semester Grade Details:

Quizzes and Summative Assessments:

  • Quizzes will be worth 5 - 20 points and given as needed.  There will be a summative assessment at the end of each chapter to monitor student mastery.  These assessments will be worth 20 - 25 points.   

Lab Activities and Projects:

  • Lab Activities will generally be worth 10 -20 points. A larger, long term project might be worth more. Each lab partner must turn in an individual lab activity.

Homework: 

  • Homework assignments will be assigned most nights and is due the following class. It is expected that you do your homework to the best of your ability. Most homework will not be collected. We will always either discuss the homework or an answer key will be provided. Even if some homework assignments are not being discussed fully, students will always have a chance to ask clarifying questions. We will have frequent quizzes, exit tickets, etc., so doing your homework, keeping organized notes, paying attention and asking clarifying questions is your key to success in this class.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  Graded assignments are posted on the Canvas homework calendar and in PowerSchool.  Students are expected to check assignments and grades often. 

Course Summary:

Date Details Due