In this course you will learn about some of the important topics in chemistry. We will start with some essential math skills and move on to such topics as density, atomic structure, the nature of light, and nuclear chemistry. We will always endeavor to make the work applicable to everyday life. A scientific calculator is required. It does not need to be a graphing calculator: a decent scientific calculator can be had for around $10 if you do not already own one.
The grading policy of Chemistry 4 is designed to reflect how much work you put into learning. If you put in the effort to learn the material you will do well. Your grade will be based on the following categories.
Homework may be corrected and handed back to me within two days of receiving the graded work. Students may take a week to complete corrections to lab reports and projects. Quizzes and tests cannot be done again for credit. For homework, copy the problems marked wrong and the corrected solution to a blank piece of paper, giving the name of the assignment, your name, and the date at the top. For lab reports and projects, submit a new draft along with the original draft for purposes of comparison. This opportunity applies to group-work as well but each member of the group is responsible for doing their own corrections individually.
Note: Only work handed in on time is eligible for corrections.
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.
If you do not hand work in on time you will deprive yourself of the opportunity to make corrections. Late work is subject to a penalty of 10%. If the work is more than five school days late then I will not accept it. This applies even if your class does not meet on the fifth day.
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 gently reminded of other safety rules. Students who do not heed such warnings will have to sit out the lab and take a zero.
I am available before and after school most days to provide help with your work. I arrive around 7 am and will usually be here until at least 3 pm.