2025 - 2026
This class is intended as an introduction to the applications and effects of chemistry as a whole. For many of you, this will be your first foray into a quantitative science, so be prepared to work. It is important to always remain on top of your work, as chemistry is a cumulative course where previous topics are used to learn the next topics. Don’t let the course intimidate you and always be willing to ask questions when you need help in understanding. These are the keys to succeeding in this class, which every one of you is capable of doing.
*As you read through these expectations, please note that some sections have different standards for honors chemistry vs AP chemistry.
You should come to class on time, and ready to learn. This means:
Notebook: An organized notebook exclusively for chemistry will help you to succeed. You need to use a composition notebook for this class. Each entry should be dated, and include any and all notes from class, demo and lab observations, homework, lab data, etc. A folder for holding and maintaining labs and tests is also advised.
Additional Items:
A black or blue pen and pencil
At least a basic scientific calculator (capable of doing scientific notation, logarithms, etc)
-You are expected to meet all the standards for behavior set forth in the Student Handbook.
-I ask all students to be respectful. Disrespectful or distracting behavior(including talking over others, name calling, swearing, slurs, and shouting) is not tolerated as it creates a hostile working environment for all other students.
-No food or drink in the classroom, other than water in a bottle(and only at the desks). This class is in a class/lab room and therefore you will regularly be surrounded by chemicals.
Newtown High School policy requires all phones to be placed in the phone caddy in front of the room at the beginning of class unless otherwise instructed.
1st offense- Teacher warning, email home
2nd offense- Referral to AP
Honors: From time to time, I may ask you to attempt a few problems or complete a worksheet from class at home. This is intended as reinforcement and practice to help you understand the concepts we cover in class. We will review these problems the following class, but they will not be graded/collected. This is on you to do what you need to understand the concepts and you should attempt as much review as needed to feel comfortable with it.
AP: Each unit there will be a set of problems from the current unit encompassing the concepts you will be tested on. These will be due the day before each unit test.
Chemistry is a lab-based science, and therefore there is a heavy focus on laboratory work. You will have a double lab period every week, though labs may be more frequent as they tie into the curriculum. Since lab work is dependent on you and your lab partner working together, it is imperative that you are present for the lab. If you are absent on the day of a lab, you must meet with me to discuss arranging a make-up time or assessment.
Safety is incredibly important in the lab room, and all the rules must be followed at all times. A violation of lab safety will result in a warning. A second violation will result in removal from the experiment and possible future experiments.
Honors: Quizzes and test will be assessed using a Standards Based Grading (SBG) method. Your quiz/test grade will be based on achievement of specific learning outcomes (LO), rather than a simple averaging of grades.
Each LO will consist of a formative assessment given shortly after learning and practicing the LO. At the end of the unit, a summative version of each LO will be given to demonstrate improvement in each area. Summative LOs can be taken multiple times through the quarter, allowing you to improve upon those standards. When retaking a summative LO, the new score will replace the original/older score. Students who continually struggle with a particular LO can make arrangements with me to work and reassess that standard.
AP: The majority of summative assessments are given as unit tests, with occasional quizzes on difficult topics. After being given back a graded unit test, students are expected to do corrections. This will result in receiving half-credit back for missed answers.
Tests will be announced approximately one week in advance. In the event of an excused absence, students must see me immediately to reschedule the test or quiz within the next 3 school days. In the event of a snow day, the quiz or test will be taken the day we return to school. Being absent the day before a test is not an excuse to take it later.
Each quarter, your grade will be determined by a weighted percentage for different assignments as follows:
Summative assessments 70%
Formative assessments 30%
Formative assessments are given through each unit and comprise mostly of labs, projects, and homework. Summative assessments are a culmination of your knowledge and represent your understanding at the end of a unit.
All assignments missed due to cutting class are considered to have a zero for a grade and cannot be made up.
Late work will be accepted at a 10% penalty if turned in by the end of the day it was due. After that, it will be accepted at a 20% penalty up to two (2) weeks after the original due date.
From time to time, students may require extra help in understanding the material. In these situations, it is expected that students are proactive about seeking help from myself, another chemistry teacher, or other students. I can always take questions emailed to me at CarleyC@Newtown.k12.ct.us.
Science Department Policy on Academic Honesty
Academic Honesty on any assignment is expected in this class. Failure to do so will result in a zero grade for all students involved. It is your responsibility to protect your own work. At no time may any work be submitted that is similar to any one else’s. This includes lab questions and lab procedures, questions, and problems from texts, computers, or any other source. Tutors may monitor the format but not influence content or technical analysis.
Academic Honesty: Each student is responsible for producing his or her own work and will be held responsible for protecting and maintaining the confidentiality of their own work.
This definition is based on the performance standard for responsible citizen from the common denominator.
Cheating can include, but is not limited to
The use of unauthorized notes during a test or quiz
Using another student’s work during a test or quiz
Allowing another student to see one’s answers during a test or quiz
Giving information to students who have not taken the test
Allowing students who have not yet taken the test to receive information
Using another student’s homework
Allowing another student to copy one’s work
Plagiarizing by copying another person’s work from any resource (periodical. Book, internet, etc.) and submit it as one’s own
Plagiarizing by paraphrasing or using parts of another person’s work (ideas, written work, diagrams, charts, etc.) without citing it as a resource in context or in a footnote.
Sending data after completion of a lab – Every student is responsible for recording his or her own data during the lab.
Helping a student by sharing work. – If a student needs help, direct them to the teacher.
Every lab report should be individually written. It is NOT a group project but an individual analysis.
Cheating consequences include loss of credit and notification to the guidance counselor. Eligibility for National Honor Society, scholarships, and honors can also be lost.
Chemistry Laboratory Safety Rules
Always wear safety goggles when working with chemicals, glass, heat, etc.
Do not wear open-toed shoes when doing lab work(no sandals, flip flops, etc)
NO eating, drinking, or gum chewing during a lab.
Follow lab instructions. Do not modify an experiment unless instructed to do so
Always wash your hands after working with chemicals.
NEVER taste, touch, or directly smell a chemical or solution. If you are required to smell a substance, then waft the odor towards you.
Know where all the safety equipment is and how to use it.
Always dispose of waste material as instructed.
If unsure of a procedure, ask the teacher. Don’t ask another student instead.
Notify the teacher of any spills or injuries, regardless of how minor you think it may be.
Never work alone or without proper teacher supervision.
Don’t spray or throw chemicals around. You can’t always be sure of exactly what you’re dealing with.
Accidents happen. When they do, let the teacher know so it can be fixed as quickly as possible.
When you have read the above rules and expectations, fill out the form found here: https://goo.gl/forms/lIbBtMiFJpD0Qeou1