Honors Chemistry Guidelines: 2020-2021

wellsj2@gcsnc.com

605-3300 ext. 1675

Chemistry is a challenging, cumulative subject.  You will have a chance to apply learned math skills.  Success requires staying current and aiming for a real understanding of each concept.

Safety

We practice safe science at all times.  Horseplay, unauthorized experimentation, vandalism, theft, or intentional violation of any safety policy outlined in your safety rules will result in permanent exclusion from the laboratory activities and area.  Safety goggles, aprons, and close toe shoes must be worn for ALL laboratory work.  Gloves are always available.  Gloves must be worn if your skin is broken/cut, irritated, or overly sensitive; and when specified for work with certain chemicals.  Inform me of serious allergies.

Materials

• 3 Ring notebook with one divider (1” ring size is too small.) Materials accumulate in the notebook throughout the semester.

Notebooks are to include all unit assignments.  One divider is needed to mark the beginning of each unit's work for scoring.  Notebook checks are a large percentage of the point total each grading period.  If absent, be sure to get classwork and notes made up before the notebook check.  Your first and last name must be placed on the cover of the notebook.  Work is required to be saved in a notebook throughout the semester.

• Scientific calculator

Any scientific or graphing calculator will do.  You will need a ‘scientific notation’ function, marked 'EE' on the keypad.  Bring the calculator to class each day.  The library has calculators available for annual check-out

Grading Policy

During On-Line Instruction (1st Qtr and possibly beyond)

60%  Unit assignments (Instructional practice sets, virtual lab reports, readings, etc.)

15%  Unit Problem Set ( Each unit contains one graded problem set.  Only handwritten work is accepted as a scan or photo through Canvas.

25%  Major Assessments ( Unit tests, projects, major quizzes.)

After Return to the Classroom  45% Unit assignments  55% Major assessments

Cheating

No points are awarded for assignment submissions based on the use of unauthorized materials or the fraudulent use of another person’s work. 

Make-Up Policy

Students are responsible for making up all missed work in a timely manner.  Live virtual instruction sessions are recorded to allow absent student access.

Goals

Most students count on this course to prepare them for future science classes; including college chemistry.  In order to meet that goal, you must understand the underlying concepts behind the problems you work or activities.  You will only retain concepts that you make your own.  Do your own work and you achieve real learning.

 Be as kind as you can, to everyone that you can,

 every day that you can.

And . . . .

 If it matters to you, be persistent.