Syllabus

HONORS CHEMISTRY SYLLABUS

Shelley Perry

2007-2008

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course will focus on the study of introductory concepts and the technology of modern chemistry.  It will include a laboratory component with emphasis on safety and measurement techniques.  The course content will include structure and properties of matter, chemical formulas and equations (stoichiometry), solutions (acids-bases), and the gas laws.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1. Organize, present, evaluate, and transform data presented in one form to another form using the appropriate SI units for mathematical calculations, graphs, and charts.
2. Recognize how chemistry interrelates with all sciences and other disciplines including the effective use of technology.
3. Select and safely use apparatus, materials, and techniques to appropriately conduct experiments.
4. Recognize the nature, methodology, terminology, symbols and models of chemistry, and how these have changed over time.

COURSE CONTENT:

Most topics are explored through discussion, demonstrations, laboratory activities, homework, and use of the computer lab for interactive tutorials and online activities.

1^st Semester:

Chapter 1 – Matter and Change

1. Branches of Chemistry
2. Matter (Classification, Properties and Changes)
3. Elements / Periodic Table (Introduction)

Chapter 2 – Measurements and Calculations

1. Scientific Method (collecting data, forming hypothesis, experimenting, theorizing)
2. Measurement (SI units, derived units, density)
3. Conversion factors
4. Using Scientific Measurements (proportions, scientific notation, percent error, accuracy / precision, sig figs)
5. Laboratory Safety (rules, regulations, lab equipment, safety equipment)

Chapter 3 – Building Blocks of Matter

1. Atomic Theory
2. Atomic structure (discovery of nucleus and electron, neutron, proton)
3. Counting atoms (Atomic mass, atomic number, isotopes)

Chapter 22 – Nuclear Chemistry

1. The Nucleus (mass defect and nuclear stability, nucleons and nuclear stability, nuclear reactions)
2. Radioactive Decay (types of decay-alpha, beta, gamma-, half-life, decay series, artificial transmutations)
3. Nuclear Radiation (radiation exposure, applications)
4. Nuclear Fission and Nuclear Fusion

Chapter 4 – Arrangement of Electrons in Atoms

1. Modern Atom (electromagnetic radiation, photoelectric effect
2. Quantum Model (quantum numbers-definition and application)
3. Electron configuration (rules / principle)

Chapter 5 – The Periodic Law

1. History of the Periodic Table
2. Electron configuration and periodic table
3. Atomic trends (atomic radii, electron affinity, electronegativity)

Chapter 6 – Chemical Bonding

1. Types of bonding (ionic, covalent, metallic)
2. Geometry-VSEPR-(hybridization, intermolecular forces)

Chapter 7 – Chemical Formulas and Chemical Compounds

1. Names and Formula (ions, ionic compounds, naming, acids / salts, basic organic compounds)
2. Oxidation numbers
3. Using Chemical Formulas (molar mass, percent composition)
4. Determining Chemical Formulas (empirical formulas, molecular formulas)

Chapter 8 – Chemical Equations and Reactions

1. Chemical reactions (word equations, coefficients, indications, balancing)
2. Types of Reactions (synthesis, single replacement, double replacement, decomposition, combustion)
3. Activity Series and Solubility Rules

Chapter 9 – Stoichiometry

1. Reaction types (mole ratios, molar mass)
2. Ideal reactions (conversions, mass / mole, mass / mass)
3. Limiting reactants (excess reactants, percent yield)

Chapter 16 – Reaction Energy

1. Thermochemistry(endothermic, exothermic, thermochemical equations)
2. Calorimetry and specific heat
3. Hess’s Law

Course Requirements:

* scientific calculator      *3-ring binder or spiral notebook with pocket dividers    *pen/pencil

Class Expectations:

• Everyone will be treated with dignity and respect
• You will be in your assigned seat ready to learn (with necessary materials) when the bell rings
• Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated.  If you are caught cheating you will receive a zero on the test or assignment and parents will be informed of the incident.
• Safety is a primary concern in a laboratory based class, unsafe behavior will receive the harshest response allowed by school policy.
• Follow all school rules: refer to your CHS handbook
• Have a positive attitude

Assessing your Performance

• Grading: Tests                                                      80%

                       Labs, Quizzes, and Homework          20%

• Make-up Work: Any tests/quizzes/labs missed must be made up within 3 days upon return to school.  These tests/quizzes/labs will be scheduled before school.  If you miss a pre-arranged make-up time without a valid reason, you will receive a “0” for that test/quiz/lab.

• Extra Credit: None.  The only extra points will be the occasional bonus question on a major test.

• Tutoring:  I prefer before school and  I am here most days by 7:15.  Let me know if you need to come in for additional help.