COURSE OBJECTIVES: To allow students to develop a working understanding of the concepts, methods and practical applications of chemistry in today's world.
COURSE CONTENT: The major topics include matter, measurement, problem-solving, solutions, acids, bases, salts, atomic structure, chemical behavior, the mole, the periodic table, chemical reactions, chemistry in the home, environment and industry, organic chemistry and biochemistry.
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 40% 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 handouts and performance in the lab; labs make up 40% 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; your notebook counts as a test grade each marking quarter.
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 year and covers material from the entire course; the exam counts as 1/5 of your final course grade.
G. Each marking quarter your lowest 2 lesson
grades will be dropped.
CLASS POLICIES:
A. Attendance: Attendance is essential at all times for this hands-on/application type of course.
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 every other day, you need to check with us the day you return which may NOT be a regular class meeting. Lessons not made up in a timely manner will be counted as zeros. Remember that only 2 lessons per quarter will be dropped.
C. Come prepared: You must always bring your notebooks, pencil/pen, completed assignments and calculators with you to class.
D. Extra Help: Just ASK, that's what we are here for.
E. Class Rules:
1. Be prepared. 
2. Be on time.
3. Be polite.
4. Try your best.
5. Be safe.
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.
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