I. COURSE OBJECTIVES: To allow students to develop a working understanding of the concepts, methods and practical applications of chemistry in today's world.
II. COURSE CONTENT: This
course will deal with the following major topics : matter and energy,
scientific method, measurement, problem solving, classification, properties
and changes of matter, elements, compounds, mixtures, and reactions, the
mole, atomic structure, electrons, the periodic table, chemical bonding,
molecular shapes, structure and properties of molecules, the kinetic theory,
the three phases of matter, energy changes, solutions and their properties,
reaction rates, chemical equilibrium, acids, bases, and salts, and redox
reactions. Time permitting:
electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, and organic chemistry.
III. GRADING POLICY:
A. Tests: Tests on each unit are required; usually one week's notice will be given; tests are usually part objective and part subjective; tests make up 50% of your quarter grade.
B. Quizzes: Announced and unannounced quizzes will be given frequently often based on your homework; quizzes make up 20% of your quarter grade.
C. Lab Reports: Your lab grade will be based on your completed lab reports and performance in the lab; labs make up 30% of your quarter grade.
D. Notebook: A three-ring loose-leaf notebook is required; ALL course materials should be kept in your notebook in a neat and organized manner; your notebook MUST ALWAYS be brought to class.
E. Homework: Homework is essential in enforcing classwork; it is assigned frequently and graded as +3, +2 or +1 point depending on completeness and effort; late homeworks receive a grade of -5 points; these points are averaged at the end of each quarter and then either added or subtracted from your average.
F. Final Exam--This exam is required at the
end of the second semester. The exam covers material from the entire
school year. The exam counts as 1/5 of your second semester grade.
IV. CLASS POLICIES:
A. Attendance: Attendance is essential at all times.
B. Makeup Work: You have one day to make up work for each day of excused absence; makeup is your responsibility; if absent call your lab partner to see what you missed! Since our class will meet four days each week, you need to check with me the day you return which may NOT be a regular class meeting. Homework assignments not made up in a timely manner will receive a -5.
C. Come prepared: You must always bring your
textbook, notebook, pencil/pen,
completed assignments and calculators with you to class.
D. Extra Help: Just ASK, and we will set up a time that is convenient for both of us, that's what I am here for. If you make an appointment and can't come, please let me know. Your consideration will be appreciated and remembered.
E. Class Rules:
V.
SAFETY IN THE LAB--You will now be given a safety
tour of the room. Features such as fire extinguishers, fire blanket,
safety shower and eye wash station should be carefully observed and understood.
A great deal more about safety will occur in upcoming lessons. You
will also be required to sign and have your parent and/or guardian sign
a safety agreement.
The following safety rules MUST be adhered to at all times in the laboratory!!
1. Know what you are doing!
Be aware of the procedures before you start the
lab.
Listen to any special instructions given by your
teacher at the time of the lab.
2.
Observe Safety Procedures.
Always wear goggles and an apron in the lab.
Keep loose hair tied back.
Never eat, drink or taste anything in the lab.
Wash your hands with soap and water before leaving
the lab.
Keep your face away from flames and reaction vessels.
Avoid inhaling fumes.
Only use chemicals and amounts designated.
Report any laboratory accidents to your instructor
immediately.
3. Prevent Accidents.
No horsing around in the lab.
Clean up all spills; dilute with water and use
a wet sponge.
Use caution with bunsen burners, they stay
HOT a long time. 
Place trash in the designated area.
Know how to use your equipment correctly.
4. Avoid Contamination.
Do NOT return unused chemicals to their original
containers. 
Put the top back on chemical containers.
Use CLEAN spatulas and stirring rods.
Use CLEAN glassware.
DO NOT bring food or drinks into the lab.
