Reeds Spring High School Instructor: Tonya Lewis
Chemistry I Course Syllabus Email: tlewis@wolves.k12.mo.us

Required Textbook: Chemistry: Connections to Our Changing World . Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 1996.

Each student must fulfill the following core objectives:

You will…

• Locate and explain the use of safety equipment.
• Measure and convert measurements using standard laboratory and technological equipment.
• Recall and utilize methods of scientific inquiry.
• Conduct and analyze laboratory research.
• Record data in a journal and produce formal and informal reports on field and laboratory work.
• Construct and interpret maps, tables, charts, and graphs.
• Analyze and assess matter and energy.
• Analyze the Periodic Table and predict trends within it.
• Read and evaluate science-related literature.

Course Policies and Procedures

Classroom Conduct

Students are expected to follow the RSHS Handbook. Students are expected to follow the policies and procedures set forth by the teacher and/or Administration. These may change during the school year. All safety procedures must be followed to ensure the well being of each student. Rules for general classroom behavior are posted in the room. You may not play card or calculator games in this class. Personal stereo systems, cell phones, and/or other personal electronic devices may not be used during class time. You must come to class dressed appropriately for laboratory work. This includes closed-toed shoes! You will be considered tardy if you are not in the room prepared to begin class when the bell rings. Try to be on time whether excused or not. Chemistry is a challenging subject so your daily attendance is important!

Grade Determination

The following grading scale will be in effect in this class as determined by the Administration.

You will be assessed on how well you have mastered objectives and skills for this course. You will be given many opportunities to accomplish each objective. Extension activities may be given, which may be remedial or enriching depending on your individual needs. Activities and quizzes will be considered as part of your formative evaluation and will provide you with feedback. Consistently high marks will, naturally, result in a high summative score. However, students will not be penalized for low formative scores if they are improving. In addition, feedback from these formative activities will allow you to make adjustments before your summative evaluation. The summative evaluation is the final grade given for each objective. Objective scores will be averaged for your letter grade. Tests will be given at the end of each unit of study. If necessary, you may repeat up to two unit exams per semester. Repeat exams will be given one week after the original. You must complete an improvement plan at least five-days prior to repeating a test. The plan should include specific tasks you will carry out in order to improve performance on the repeat test.

Make-up Work Policy

As young adults, it is your responsibility to make up any work you miss. If laboratory work must be made up after school, it must be arranged ahead of time so the lab will be prepared.

Tutoring Available

If you need extra help with your school work, you may take advantage of the A+ Schools tutoring program or see me during Guided Study Hall. I am usually available before and after school by appointment only. Do not hesitate to ask for assistance.

Extra Credit and Bonus Points

No extra Credit or bonus points will be available.

Laboratory Safety Procedures

Students must take a safety test before proceeding to laboratory work. Students must pass the quiz with an accuracy of at least 80%. Students may repeat the test if necessary. Students and parents must read and sign a safety contract before the student may begin laboratory work. The laboratory safety procedures will be given to you when safety is discussed in class. In order to ensure and improve safety, students may be video taped intermittently. Warning: students who wear contact lenses during laboratory work involving chemicals are at higher risk for eye injury if eyes are not protected by goggles.

Materials Needed

For use as a lab manual/notebook, a composition-style is required. It must be separate from other notebooks for you may need to turn it in for evaluation periodically. Procedures for how to organize and use your journal will be given and discussed in class at a later date. You must obtain a notebook as soon as possible for we will begin using them on the second day of class. NO spiral notebooks will be allowed in this laboratory! You may use blue or black ballpoint pen or # 2 pencils for journal writing; keep in mind they may get wet. You may not use red ink at anytime in this class. A scientific calculator is necessary for this class; scientific notation will be used frequently. You are responsible for bringing pencils/pens, your notebook, and a calculator to class each day. Your textbook will be used as a reference. It is a good idea that you have at least one textbook per group everyday. You may not store materials in the classroom unless authorized by the teacher. A hanging file will be provided for you to store your lab notebook and a few small items. Unfortunately, textbooks and binders are too large for the student file cabinets.

Print Student Name___________________Course __________________ Hour________

Please sign below if you have read and understand the contents of this syllabus. If you have questions please call me at work, 272-8171 ext. 1218 or home, 538-4410. Please return this copy of this document by August 29, 2008. A copy of this document will be provided for students to include in their notebooks. If parents would like their own copy of this document please check the box below.

Student Signature Date

Parent or Guardian Signature Date

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