10th-12th Grade Chemistry
Coach Kelsoe
2012-2013
A. Course Description: This course covers the fundamental concepts of chemistry. Topics
covered are based on the Alabama Course of Study for chemistry. This course will also
prepare students for additional science classes.
B. Required Materials: two-inch 3-ring binder, paper, pencils/pens, textbook, and scientific
calculator. Lab fees may be required as the year progresses.
C. Grading: Your grade for this course will be based on the “point” system. Most exams
will be worth around 100 points. There will be numerous daily grades with a varying
amount of points available. The amount of points available will be determined by the
instructor when the assignment is given. Grades are calculated by dividing the total
points earned by the total points possible and multiplying by 100.
a. Exams will be given approximately once per week or once per two weeks, and
unannounced quizzes may also be given. The exam material will come from
lecture notes, text, homework assignments, and any lab activities done during the
testing interval.
b. Daily grades will consist of homework, worksheets, writing assignments,
vocabulary quizzes, lab work, and article reviews. Homework is a valuable tool
in teaching and is necessary to reinforce topics covered in class.
c. “Bell-Ringer” activities may be assigned upon entering class. These bell-ringers
are subject to be graded at any time during the six weeks. Bell-ringers may also
be used as pop quizzes at the teacher’s discretion. Students will not be
responsible for bell-ringers done during previous six-weeks.
d. Textbook checks may be administered at random times during the year. These
checks count as daily grades. If the student does not have his or her own
textbook, his/her grade will be a zero.
e. A group or individual project may also be assigned. Each student is responsible
for his/her part of the project.
f. The semester exams will be cumulative.
g. Extra point opportunities are at the teacher’s discretion and will not be given at
the end of the grading period. Students should take advantage of these
opportunities when offered.
D. Topics Covered:
a. First Semester: Chapters 1-6 – Matter and Change, Measurements and
Calculations, Atoms, Arrangement of Electrons, Periodic Law, and Chemical
Bonding. Course of Study Objectives: 1-3, 9
b. Second Semester: Chapters 6-15, 22 – Chemical Formulas and Compounds,
Chemical Equations and Reactions, Stoichiometry, States of Matter, Gases,
Solutions, Acids and Bases, Organic Chemistry. Course of Study Objectives: 4-8
E. Classroom Conduct: Students are expected to exhibit respect for classmates, the
instructor, faculty, staff, administration, and property of the Morgan County Board of
Education and Priceville High School.
a. Students should be in their seats with class materials ready when the bell rings.
The bell signals the beginning of class. Students are expected to take care of all
personal needs between classes. Students are expected to work diligently and stay
seated until class is dismissed. The TEACHER dismisses class, NOT the bell.
b. Students should not talk while the instructor is addressing the class.
c. Students should always obey the classroom rules and lab safety rules and policies.
d. Students should follow all school rules and policies, including the student
handbook.
F. Student Responsibilities:
a. Come to class each day prepared with pencils/pens, paper, textbook, science
notebook, and all assignments. Each assignment should be labeled with the
student’s name (first and last and written legibly), date, and class period. All
assignments should be turned in on the due date. Penalties will be accrued for late
work.
b. Students are expected to participate in class. This includes taking notes, asking
and answering questions, participating in class discussions, and conducting
practice problems. Class participation is highly encouraged.
c. Make-up work is the student’s responsibility. Make-up work is only allowed for
students with excused absences, and must be turned in within five days of the
student returning to school unless other arrangements are made. Students must
make arrangements to complete missed assignments and tests due to excuse
absences.
d. Textbooks should be cared for properly. Any damage done to the textbook while
it is assigned to you may result in the purchase of a new textbook. Each student is
responsible for his/her own textbook.
e. Accommodations will be made for any student with special needs. Please notify
the instructor as soon as possible if you have a special need.
I anticipate a great year from each class. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free
to contact me.
Coach Chad Kelsoe
**Please sign and return this form by Wednesday, August 22. It should be kept in the student’s
notebook at all times.**
I have read the course syllabus for this subject.
Student Signature: ______________________________________________________________
Guardian Signature: _____________________________________________________________