Course Overview
In this course you will learn about some of the
important topics in chemistry. We will start with some
essential math skills and use these to cover such
topics as density, atomic structure, the nature of
light, nuclear chemistry, molecular structure, gases,
heat and chemical reactions. The textbook for the
course is Investigating
Chemistry: A Forensic Science Perspective, 2nd
edition by Matthew E. Johll. Published by W.H.
Freeman and Co., ©2009
What to Bring to Class
Missing Class
If you are tardy or miss class you must present me with
an absence slip from the main office. This will clearly
indicate whether it was excused or unexcused. If you
come to class without one you will be asked to go to
the office to obtain it.
If you miss class, and it is an excused absence, then
you may make up the work you missed. You must see me
before class starts or after it has ended and ask for
the work. It is your responsibility to find out what
you missed and to do it. You must complete the work no
later than the due date plus the number of days absent
or the usual late penalties will apply.
Late Work
Lateness is not acceptable unless you were absent and
have shown me proper documentation to prove your
absence was excused. Arrangements to hand in work
missed when absent must be made at the first class
meeting upon your return. Late work is subject
to a penalty of 25 points on a 100 point
assignment. Late work will be accepted only
within two days of the original due date. After that it
will not be accepted. An incomplete lab handed in on
time will not be eligible for a do-over. Incomplete
work handed in late will not be accepted.
Lab Safety
Safety is of paramount importance in the lab. Warnings
of particular hazards will be given in the introduction
to each lab activity. Students will be reminded once of
safety rules. Students who do not heed such reminders
will have to sit out the lab and take a
zero.
Office Hours
I will be available after school Tuesdays and
Wednesdays. Also, I usually arrive at school by 7
am at the
latest so seeing me before school for help is also
possible.
If you are struggling, make an effort to come and see
me. In my experience this one action can improve your
understanding (and your grades) immensely.
Recitation
One of the most important ways to improve your grade in
my class is to do well on tests and quizzes. In order
to encourage you to come in for help with your
preparation I will offer 5% in extra credit points on a
quiz if you come in at least once to study in my room
during office hours and actively ask me questions. This
is a great opportunity to get together with friends to
come in and ask questions and study together.
