The following is an overview dealing with important aspects of AP Chemistry. If you have any questions, please ask. I feel I am very receptive to questions and often use those questions to clear up any misconceptions present within the group. Most importantly, I want you to enjoy the experience that is AP Chemistry. Appreciate the role chemistry plays in our lives. Understand the history that has shaped much of the technology we take for granted. Be an active participant – the journey becomes much more meaningful.
1.
Homework
Homework is not mandatory. That said, I will reward those of you who choose to put your homework on paper. Here is my rubric for earning points for homework:
Completing a third of the homework set on paper = 10/10 points added to your grade
Completing two thirds of the homework set on paper = 20/20 points added to your grade
Completing the entire homework set on paper = 30/30 points added to your grade.
I do not collect the homework, nor do I require correctness to earn points. You must make a reasonable attempt at each problem to earn credit for it. You must also get to the next level to get the next amount of points. I do not “round up”. You can calculate how many homework problems you would need to do on each problem set to get the homework points. I will walk around the class on each homework day and assign points.
The effect of the above rubric is that people can have different number of points each quarter. That is OK. As you will read below, your grade is determined by percentages each quarter, not a yearly total of points.
2.
Lab Reports
We will discuss in greater detail the lab report format when we approach our first lab.
3.
Tests
At the end of each unit there is a unit test. The test is given in a double period. They are very thorough exercises challenging your knowledge of chemistry. They deserve your utmost respect.
4.
Grades
The grades in AP Chemistry come from the following sources:
 Homework (possibly)
 Tests
 Lab reports
There are usually 250-450 points in a quarter. The distribution is roughly 75% test, 25% labs
(this changes with homework). The grading scale for this class is
>89.5% = A
>79.5% = B
>69.5% = C

In summary, I leave you with this quote. Henry Ford, a pioneer in the auto industry, would often tell people close to him,
“Whether you believe you can do a thing or not, you are right.”
If problems arise this year, become proactive. Seek help. Talk to a peer in your class with sound chemistry knowledge. Talk to a student in a previous class you trust, or better yet, find me. I am your best resource. Take advantage.
I hope you have a memorable experience this year in AP Chemistry.