In this course you will learn about some of the basic, important topics in chemistry. This should prepare you to approach a school-year chemistry course with some real confidence in conceptual knowledge, mathematical skills, and laboratory technique. I intend to cover Scientific Notation, Dimensional Analysis, and Molecular Models. Several interesting labs will allow the topics we touch on to be a bit broader.
As with all the Upward Bound courses, you are not given a final grade. Instead, I will write a narrative evaluation which assesses:
This evaluation will be based, in part, on the grades you earn on the work you do. I will give grades for each assignment and test so that we can both keep track of your progress in the course.
The grading policy 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.
If you miss class then you may make up the work you missed. You must see me and ask for the work as soon as you return to class. Or be in touch with your TA, who can help you to figure out what you need to do to catch up. This must be on your own initiative: advocate for yourself! We will determine due dates for make-up work as needed.
Late work is subject to a penalty of 25 points on a 100 point assignment. Late work will be accepted only upon consultation with your teacher.
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.