Chemistry

Course Overview


Chemistry is the study of the composition of matter and the changes that matter undergoes. Here is a summary of the topics that we will be covering throughout the year:

Unit 1 –Scientific Measurements Unit 10 – Chemical Reactions and Equations

Unit 2 – Describing Matter Unit 11 - Stoichiometry

Unit 3 - Atomic Structure Unit 12 – Heat and States of Matter

Unit 4 –Electrons in Atoms Unit 13 - Gase

Unit 5 – The Periodic Table Unit 14 - Solutions

Unit 6 – Chemical Bonds Unit 15 – Reaction Rates and Equilibrium

Unit 7 – Molecular Structures Unit 16 – Acid and Base

Unit 8 –Formulas and Names Unit 17 - Electrochemistry

Unit 9 – Molar Relationship Unit 18 – Nuclear Chemistry

00 Joint Syllabus Chem 22-23.pdf
Learning Targets Fall.pdf
Learning Targets Spring.pdf

Required Class Materials

  • Each student will be required to take notes. This can be done through multiple options depending on a student's needs:

    • Digital Option: an iPad with note taking app

    • Physical Option: copies of blank notes and homework are made available online and may be printed by the student through the year as needed

  • A graphing calculator (A TI-84 is strongly recommended).

Google Classroom

Westlake High School utilizes the Google Classroom platform to share classroom resources, many assignments, and assessment preparation materials to students. WHS students will receive a classroom code to access these materials, submit assignments, and track any missing work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

1. Is there Extra Credit?

No.

1a. Really?

Really.

1b. Why?

It is the expectation that you will earn the grade that you earn based on the work you put in. In order to maintain equity for all students, everyone will get the same number of opportunities to demonstrate mastery and earn the high grades I know you'll all want to achieve.

1c. ...But what about?

2. What is the retest policy in Chemistry?

There will be an opportunity to retest all traditional major assessments (aka Test/Exams). These retests will NOT fully replace the grade, but provide an opportunity to improve grades from traditional assessments.

Other than the these retests, there are NO OTHER RETESTING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!

3. Is there a Chemistry I textbook?

A chemistry textbook is available to any student at anytime for checkout from their chemistry teacher. If a student wants a textbook, they simply need to ask for one. Parents can also request a textbook by e-mail. Textbooks can be checked out for all year or for only a short time, but while the textbook is checked out it is the student’s responsibility. In addition, there is a digital copy of the text book available through the link in the syllabus. The textbook is not required, but is merely another resource.

4. What tutoring is available for Chemistry I?

There are many options for tutoring in chemistry:

Tutoring by Teacher – Every Chemistry I teacher follows the same lesson plans and gives common assessments, therefore any chemistry I student can receive tutoring from any Chemistry I teacher. Each chemistry I teacher provides tutoring in their classroom. Please visit the teacher’s website to determine the tutoring times available. The student can also schedule a tutoring appointment with a teacher.

NGC Library Tutoring – Science tutoring is also available in the NGC library during the following times this school year:

Mondays, Tuesdays, & Wednesdays: 4:30-6:30 pm

5. How is homework checked and graded?

Practice will be assigned regularly both in class and out of class. Out of class practices will be checked for understanding at the beginning of the class period on the due date. Practices will not be taken for a grade, however students are still expected to practice until they have mastery of the topic. If the practices are not done, the test will be a CHALLENGE!! Based on student performance and usage of the policy we reserve the right to adjust this policy.

6. What do numbers on titles of Homework, Labs, and Quizzes mean?

The numbers on homework, labs, and quizzes state the unit and learning target the assignment covers. (For example: 15A Lab means this lab was in unit 15 and covers material from the 15A learning target). This system of organization is used to help both the student and the teacher know which assignments need to be made up after an absence.

7. What does an *, 0, or “missing” mean in the gradebook?

An * in the gradebook means the assignment has not yet been graded by the teacher. The chemistry teachers do their best to make sure all grades are put into the gradebook in a timely manner, but some assignments, especially labs, take an extended period of time to grade. These assignments may show up in gradebook with an * and is noted as “missing.” These assignments are NOT truly missing. The gradebook system will automatically mark assignments as “missing” five days after their due date, so please be patient and understand that an * ALWAYS means an assignment has not yet been graded.

A 0 in the gradebook means the student has earned 0 credit on an assignment, but a 0 and is noted as “missing” (with a bolded score) means an assignment was not turned in. Depending on the circumstances, these assignments can be made up. The zero is put into gradebook as a place holder to display what grade will be received if the assignment is not completed.

8. Calculator requirement

All chemistry students will have iPads this school year. Graphing and scientific calculator apps are available and are fine for student use during general classroom activities. On tests and quizzes students have to use a graphing or scientific calculator since iPads have internet capabilities. Scientific calculators can be purchased for about $15. Graphing calculators can be checked out at the library. If there are issues obtaining a calculator, contact your teacher individually.

For many exams, teachers will have a classroom set that is mandatory to be used. This is due to the abundance of calculator apps that may contain information or be used to give a student an unfair advantage.