Course Syllabus

Extra Help:

My office hours will be on Mondays from 2:30 - 3:05 in room 440.  For additional extra help, please use the Help Videos linked on Canvas, the Science Support Centerand NHS Peer Tutoring.  Reach out to me if you have any questions about any of the extra help opportunities.  The best way to contact me is via email: morrisonl@wellesleyps.org.

 

Introductory Video

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 1: Quantifying Chemistry

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:

  • Communication and patience are the most important elements for student engagement!  Students should reach out whenever they need additional support.  Please make sure to use the resources available to you, including the Help Videos linked on Canvas.
  • Cell phones are expected to be put away during class.  If a student needs to access their phone, please ask for permission.  

Required Course Materials:

Laptop and something to write with

Headphones or Earbuds

Textbook and Workbook

  • You will be provided with a copy of the van Geel textbook and workbook.  Please bring your workbook to class every day.  There is an answer key in the back on the workbook.  The textbook can stay at home.  A PDF of the textbook is posted on Canvas.

Three Ring Binder

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

Scientific Calculator

  • The subject of Chemistry is often very math-based. You should bring a calculator daily. Sophomores often have a graphing calculator for Math class, and I recommend using that for Chemistry as well.  If you do not have a graphic calculator, you do not need to purchase one just for Chemistry.  Graphing Calculators, cell phones, or other electronic devices may not always be permitted. 

Grading Policy:

The final grade for Honors Chemistry will be calculated based on the following percentages: each quarter is worth 22% of the final grade and students will take both a Semester 1 and Semester 2 Final, which are each worth 6% of the final grade.  

 

 Quarter Grade Details:

Quizzes and Summative Assessments:

  • Quizzes will be worth 2 - 20 points and given as needed.  There will be a summative assessment at the end of each chapter to monitor student mastery.  Each test will be worth 100 points.   

Lab Activities and Projects:

  • Lab Activities will generally be worth 10-30 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. Students will always have a chance to ask clarifying questions. 

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

 

If a student is absent, please check in with another student and look at Canvas.  Follow up with me as needed. 

 

If I am absent, I will communicate my expectations for the day via Canvas.