Chemistry Syllabus

Mr. Robinson

Chemistry Class

This class is a regent’s level class and is designed to challenge students.  The class follows the N.Y.S. Regent’s Chemistry Curriculum and culminates with a comprehensive Regent’s exam.   Success in this course and on the exam is dependent upon dedication and hard work by the students.  Students will not be able to “wing” this course. Those who are struggling must stay after for extra help and spend time each night studying at home.  Each new concept we learn is built off the previous, therefore each concept needs to be understood.   Attendance is probably the most crucial element to success in this course.

Grading       

Grades are calculated using a total point system, i.e., a 25 question test is worth 25 points, a 10 question quiz is worth 10 points. The weight of each category is approximately:

                                Quizzes:      30%

                                Tests:          50%

                                Lab:            10%

Chemistry Lab

Labs are typically graded in the following format:

Prelab Discussion: 20pts

Procedure: 20pts

Observation/Data: 20pts

Calculations: 20pts

Questions/Conclusion: 20pts

I need to be able to read the labs in order to grade them, so neatness and legibility is crucial. If a student can not hand-write an acceptable lab report, them it should be done on a compter and printed.

The laboratory is designed to be hands-on and student-oriented.  Students will be challenged to apply their knowledge of chemistry to laboratory activities.  Note:  Sometimes students are used to having instructions, procedures, and answers given to them without first trying to figure it out for themselves.  The laboratory activities are designed to overcome these rote practices and increase their critical thinking skills.

                The laboratory is a requirement of New York State Dept. of Ed.  Students are expected to keep a notebook exclusively for lab, which will be collected at the end of the year.

Behavior in the Lab

                Due to the dangerous nature a chemical laboratory, students are required to follow all common-sense rules of safety in the laboratory.  Any student who behaves in a manner which is inappropriate and/or a danger to other students will be removed from lab and therefore will not be able to meet the lab requirement for regent’s credit.