Chemistry

Chemistry Syllabus

OVERVIEW:

Chemistry is the study of the world around us—from the air we breathe, to the water we drink and the food we eat. It is a practical science that often explains the how and why questions we have regarding the environment, medicine, industry, agriculture, and life! In our process of discovery, we will learn very interesting facts about many topics, starting with an introduction to the periodic table and the properties of matter. We will also study atomic structure, chemical formulas and the formation of compounds, balancing chemical equations, kinetic theory of matter, behavior of gases, pH, oxidation/reduction reactions, and basic organic chemistry.

TEXTBOOK:

Phillips, J.S., V.S. Strozak, and C. Wistrom. 2005 Chemistry: Concepts and Applications, 2nd Ed. Columbus, OH: Glencoe Science. 783 pp.

GRADING:

//Quarter 1:// Missed exams MUST be made up within ONE week of your excused absence. Further, it is YOUR responsibility to arrange the make-up exam with me.
 * Two exams worth 50% of your grade (25% each)**

There will be 10 quizzes given in the first quarter. To avoid creating multiple make-up quizzes for absences, I will only count your top 8 quizzes. This means there are no make-up quizzes.
 * Eight quizzes worth 35% of your grade**


 * Several lab reports worth a combined 15% of your grade.**

//Quarter 2:// Missed exams MUST be made up within ONE week of your excused absence. Further, it is YOUR responsibility to arrange the make-up exam with me.
 * Two exams worth 50% of your grade (25% each)**

There will be 7 quizzes given in the second quarter. To avoid creating multiple make-up quizzes, I will only count your top 5 quizzes. This means there are no make-up quizzes.
 * Five quizzes worth 35% of your grade**


 * Several lab reports worth a combined 15% of your grade.**

//Semester 1:// As is typical of your other courses, 80% of your semester grade will be derived equally from your quarter grades and 20% from your final exam. Your final exam will be a comprehensive.

The grading scheme will be similar for the second semester.

CONTACT:

281.630.7772

jholman@chinquapin.org

Residence N

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR:

Be in class on time and be prepared.

You are expected to treat everyone with respect at all times. See your student handbook for appropriate behavior and dress.

NO FOOD OR DRINK IN THE LAB. We will be using chemicals and microorganisms that may be harmful if ingested. Food may be easily contaminated, then ingested… not good. Further, many students are tempted to leave their trash in the drawers, attracting unwanted pests. There are no warnings for this offense—your entire lab table will lose points on that week’s lab report if I find trash in the drawers or if I catch you with food or drink.