Syllabus

Chemistry Syllabus Teacher: Ms. Rita Loughrin

Email: rita.loughrin@colemantech-high.com

Website: sites.google.com/a/colemantech-high.com/loughrin2014-15/

Help Desk: Tuesdays - 3:15 – 4:00 PM; before or after school by appointment

WELCOME TO Chemistry!

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Chemistry is a hands-on, challenging laboratory course, introducing students to the exciting world of atoms and their interactions. We will study atomic theory, chemical bonding, chemical reactions and equations. Students will learn what makes up our universe and how matter interacts. Labs will be incorporated into each unit. Students will need to use their past scientific knowledge to solve problems, analyze and apply scientific data, design experiments, use computers to monitor progress, and present scientific concepts in a public forum.

For most students, the language, thinking processes, and abstract nature of chemistry present challenges similar to other skill based courses (e.g. math and language study.) To help students practice their chemistry skills, students will have assigned homework on a regular basis. Help will be available during class and before and after school.

Text: Chemistry, Prentice Hall

  1. COURSE GOALS:Students discover the fascinating and FUN world of chemistry!
  2. Students effectively learn basic chemistry concepts.
  3. Students are well prepared to be successful in college level chemistry classes.
  4. Students develop safe, accurate, and professional lab techniques.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Algebra I. Because of the complexity of the course, mature classroom behavior and study skills are required.

SUPPLIES required for class each day:

  • 1 to 1 1/2 inch 3- ring binder, filled with lined paper
  • Set of 3-5 dividers for the binder (optional)
  • Pen or pencil (sharpened)
  • Laptop in charged, working condition

(NB: As a mom myself, I realize getting binders, dividers, paper and pencils can be a challenge. I have some binders, dividers, paper and pencils for students who are not able to secure them. But if you are able to get these supplies for your own child and/or donate extra for other students that would help out everyone! Thank you.)

RULES and SAFETY: School rules (see Program of Academic Study) will be adhered to as well as the following:

  • · Be respectful and courteous to others. “5 minute Whine Rule.”
  • · Please be quiet in the classroom and listen when the teacher or others are speaking.
  • · Students are expected to sit in the seats selected by the teacher. No wandering! For respect and safety, students must ask permission to leave their seats and use a pass to go to the bathroom, the office, etc. Passes have a Three Minute limit.
  • · Use gentle, appropriate, and non-vulgar language. No name calling, put-downs or shouting.
  • · All students are expected to RESPECTFULLY participate; questions are welcome!
  • · NO FOOD OR DRINK IN CLASS; except clear water.
  • · No cell phone use. Cell phones are to be placed in a zippered backpack. Cell phones land in “jail” if they are out. No computer use unless SPECIFICALLY instructed by the teacher. With permission, headphones are allowed for tests, quizzes and some seat work.
  • · Act safely at all times.
  • · There is ZERO tolerance for cheating, cheating = 0. Any form of cheating/copying will result in a 0 on the assignment for both the person copying and the person allowing the copying off their paper.

Not adhering to the rules will lead to consequences including being asked to leave class, detention, class clean up, and referral.

EVALUATION (grades): Students and parents have real-time access to their grades on Power School.

20% - Homework/class work 90% - 100% A

20% - Quizzes 80% - 89% B

30% - Labs and projects 70% - 79% C

5% - Exhibition 0% - 69% F*

20% - Unit tests and Final * Coleman Tech is a NO "D" School

5% - Classroom Behavior/Tardies

TARDIES: Success in Chemistry requires daily and on-time class attendance. Students earn 4 pts each day for on-time attendance. Each day a student is tardy or has an unexcused absence, the student LOSES 4 pts.

ABSENCES: Students are RESPONSIBLE for obtaining the homework/labs/class work missed. The student must request the work and to turn it in by the make-up deadline. Students’ make-up deadline is equivalent to the number of days missed. (e.g. sick 2 days, make-up deadline = 2 days after return.)

LATE WORK: Work is accepted only 1 day late for half credit unless other arrangements have been made.