Class Overview
The purpose of Advanced Placement Chemistry is to provide a college level course in chemistry and to prepare the student to seek credit and/or appropriate placement in college chemistry courses. Normally, this course meets five times per week for a single period for 45-55 minute and students conduct at least 22 labs. Due to distance learning limitations, face-to-face time will be abbreviated. However, students will still cover the same amount of content each week. Laboratory periods will average two days per week and this hands-on laboratory work will be integrated throughout the course, accounting for more than 25% of class time.* Emphasis is placed on depth of understanding of a topic, rather than breadth of topics. Content is divided into 9 units. As some of the first units include content that students have already encountered, five units will be covered first semester, and four units will be covered second semester prior to the AP Test. The final two units will be covered after the AP test.
To be successful in this class, it is critical that students attend class regularly and plan to spend at least 6-8 hours each week studying outside of the classroom and 1-2 hours of independent study each week outside of the classroom. As concepts in this class build on one-another throughout the year, it is necessary to master concepts as they are taught. Because this class moves at an advanced pace, assignments need to be completed on time to ensure that mastery of concepts keeps up with the pace of the class. It is also critical that students assess the time required to complete assigned work and the study time necessary to be successful in all of their classes. As many students are taking multiple AP classes it is critical that students utilize the appropriate tools, such as the textbook, online resources, and notes, when completing assignments/study and that they work without distractions to maximize efficiency. Students are expected to budget their time well and meet expectations in all of their classes.
Students are strongly encouraged to ask questions regarding content as questions arise. As many topics involve calculations, students taking this class should be comfortable with pre-algebra topics. As students will frequently participate in labs, consistent attendance is mandatory; labs cannot be replicated for students who are absent. All students will be expected to strictly follow classroom safety policies to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
Content will cover four big ideas:
Big Idea 1: Scale, Proportion, Quantity (SPQ)
Big Idea 2: Structure and Properties (SAP)
Big Idea 3: Transformations (TRA)
Big Idea 4: Energy (ENE)
Class Learning Objectives:
Learn the inquiry process through numerous laboratory investigations.
Gain an understanding of the four big ideas as articulated in the AP Chemistry Curriculum Framework and demonstrate this understand by attaining a passing grade on the AP Chemistry test.
Apply mathematical and scientific knowledge and skills to solve quantitative, qualitative, spatial, and analytic problems and apply basic arithmetic, algebraic, and geometric concepts.
Formulate strategies for the development and testing of hypotheses.
Use basic statistical concepts to draw both inferences and conclusions from data & identify implications and consequences of drawn conclusions.
Use manipulative and technological tools including, a Spectrophotometer, LabQuest Data Collection Devices and Vernier Probes.
Measure, compare, order, scale, locate, and code accurately.
Do scientific research and report and display the results
*The ability to participate in some labs depends on whether we return to the school building at some point. However, students will be able to experience labs and lab assessments during distance learning via lab simulations and videos.
Grading Practices
This class uses standard-based grading practices (SBG). This means that all assessment is based student mastery of a list of standards (concepts/skills) that students are tasked to learn. Grading will be based on both assessments and assignments given as practice. Assessments include tests, quizzes, class activities/projects, and lab reports. These categories will comprise 80% of each student’s grade. Practice, which includes homework, entry tasks, and notes will comprise 20% of each grade.
Class Policies
In order for class to run smoothly, classroom policies regarding several issues are clearly outlined at the beginning of the year. The primary classroom rules are listed below. Click the class policies button to read about specific class policies regarding attendance, make-up work and late work, and academic integrity. Policies that only apply during in-building instruction, such as tardies, no name papers, bathroom, lab safety, food and drink in lab, belongings on lab benches, dress policy, and classroom management are also included.
1. Be on time and come prepared
2. Engage in the learning process and participate in a meaningful way
3. Treat yourself, others, and school property with respect
4. Dress appropriately and follow all safety rules
5. Practice academic integrity