Vista High School
Syllabus and Course Expectations
2014-2015
Chemistry
Mr. Hondros
christopherhondros@vistausd.org
Telephone Number: 760-726-5611 ext. 71412
School website: http://vhs-vistausd-ca.schoolloop.com/
Class website: mrhondrosclassroom.weebly.com
Course Scope:
This first-year course is designed for those students who are interested in Chemistry as a lab
science and are curious about the roles chemistry plays around them. This course is designed
to prepare students for the first year of college chemistry. Classes will be based on a guided
inquiry style, with frequent group work, laboratories, individual work, and problem solving
sessions. The amount of work outside of class depends upon the student and his/her
background. That being said, some work outside of class is suggested for the benefit of the
student. This course qualifies for college entrance requirements for a laboratory science. This
course fulfills one of the science credits required for graduation.
Course Goals:
In keeping with Next Generation Science Standards requirements, upon completion of this
course, the students will:
HS-PS1-1.
Use the periodic table as a model to predict the relative properties of elements
based on the patterns of electrons in the outermost energy level of atoms.
HS-PS1-2.
Construct and revise an explanation for the outcome of a simple chemical
reaction based on the outermost electron states of atoms, trends in the periodic table, and
knowledge of the patterns of chemical properties.
HS-PS1-3.
Plan and conduct an investigation to gather evidence to compare the structure of
substances at the bulk scale to infer the strength of electrical forces between particles.
HS-PS1-4.
Develop a model to illustrate that the release or absorption of energy from a
chemical reaction system depends upon the changes in total bond energy.
HS-PS1-5.
Apply scientific principles and evidence to provide an explanation about the
effects of changing the temperature or concentration of the reacting particles on the rate at
which a reaction occurs.
HS-PS1-6.
Refine the design of a chemical system by specifying a change in conditions that
would produce increased amounts of products at equilibrium.
HS-PS1-7.
Use mathematical representations to support the claim that atoms, and therefore
mass, are conserved during a chemical reaction.
HS-PS1-8.
Develop models to illustrate the changes in the composition of the nucleus of the
atom and the energy released during the processes of fission, fusion, and radioactive decay.
HS-PS2-1.
Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s second law of motion describes
the mathematical relationship among the net force on a macroscopic object, its mass, and its
acceleration.
HS-PS2-2.
Use mathematical representations to support the claim that the total momentum
of a system of objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system.
HS-PS2-3.
Apply scientific and engineering ideas to design, evaluate, and refine a device
that minimizes the force on a macroscopic object during a collision.
HS-PS2-4.
Use mathematical representations of Newton’s Law of Gravitation and
Coulomb’s Law to describe and predict the gravitational and electrostatic forces between
objects.
HS-PS2-5.
Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that an electric current
can produce a magnetic field and that a changing magnetic field can produce an electric
current.
HS-PS2-6.
Communicate scientific and technical information about why the molecularlevel structure is important in the functioning of designed materials.
HS-PS3-1
Create a computational model to calculate the change in the energy of one
component in a system when the change in energy of the other component(s) and energy flows
in and out of the system are known.
HS-PS3-2.
Develop and use models to illustrate that energy at the macroscopic scale can be
accounted for as a combination of energy associated with the motions of particles (objects) and
energy associated with the relative positions of particles (objects).
HS-PS3-3.
Design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert
one form of energy into another form of energy.
HS-PS3-4.
Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that the transfer of
thermal energy when two components of different temperature are combined within a closed
system results in a more uniform energy distribution among the components in the system
(second law of thermodynamics).
HS-PS3-5.
Develop and use a model of two objects interacting through electric or magnetic
fields to illustrate the forces between objects and the changes in energy of the objects due to the
interaction.
HS-ETS1-1. Analyze a major global challenge to specify qualitative and quantitative criteria
and constraints for solutions that account for societal needs and wants.
HS-ETS1-2. Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into
smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.
HS-ETS1-3. Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria
and trade-offs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and
aesthetics as well as possible social, cultural, and environmental impacts.
HS-ETS1-4. Use a computer simulation to model the impact of proposed solutions to a
complex real-world problem with numerous criteria and constraints on interactions within and
between systems relevant to the problem.
Textbook:
Chemistry: Matter and Change by Glencoe Science will be used in
the classroom. This text can be checked out in the library.
Materials:
Materials that will be helpful to you in your educational experience:
 Scientific calculator (graphing preferred, but not mandatory and can be checked out at the
library)
 2”- 3” Binder to hold handouts at home, with organizational system
 Folder/binder to carry materials for current class purposes
 Loose-leaf paper or notebook for notes, homework, etc.
 Multiple colors of pens, pencils, highlighters
 A planner
 A laptop or other electronic devise that is internet capable (often available in class)
Course Outline/ Benchmarks:
The topics to be studied will be approached in the following manner:
1st Semester: Nature of Science; Laboratory Safety; Laboratory Procedures; Matter; The Atom;
The Periodic Table; Stoichiometry; Ideal Gas Law
2nd Semester: Chemical Reactions; Solutions and Solids; Thermochemistry; Acids and Bases;
Equilibrium; Chemical Equations; Special Topics pertaining to Chemistry
*Chemical Awareness & Society and Chemistry Related Careers will be addressed throughout
the course of the year.
Grading Policy:
The purpose of grades is to provide effective feedback to students, parents, and the school
administration about a student’s progress towards mastery of the established standards for a
particular course or subject. It is important to note that excessive absences may hinder the
knowledge being gained to apply for a practical, real world use.
Letter grades will be determined on the following scale:
A
90% - 100%
B
80% - 89%
C
70% - 79%
D
60% - 69%
F
below 59%
Evaluation Procedures:
Classes will be based on a guided-inquiry style, with limited lecture, frequent group work, laboratories,
individual work, and problem solving sessions. Every assignment is important to maintaining a good
grade. Name, date, period, and assignment title must be on all assignments. No name will result
in a 0 grade. Spelling and grammar will also be taken into account. Grades will be calculated and
uploaded to Parent Link on a weekly basis.
Description of Graded Assignments:
Graded assignments include all of the following items:
1. Laboratories - Labs will be hand written in the composition notebook in ink and generally due
at the beginning of the second class period after lab. If you are not prepared for lab or cannot
behave according to the lab rules, an alternate assignment will be given. Exact lab writing
procedures will be given on another handout.
2. Homework - Homework will be assigned occasionally, checked for completeness, and graded
before the test. If it is not done at the time of grading, the student may come in on his/her own
time (by test day) to grade it, for a reduction in points.
3. Quizzes – Content quizzes will be given as needed, usually when a mastery check is needed.
Notebook quizzes/checks will also be given periodically to help students keep their notebooks
organized. If possible, quizzes will be graded in class to give immediate feedback. Although
all tests will be announced in advance, “pop” quizzes may be given throughout the year.
Students should make every effort to keep current with the material.
4. Tests - There will be a test after every unit. They will cover what was discussed in class,
during lab, outside assignments, and the textbook. They will consist of multiple choice,
matching, true/false, essay, laboratory examples, hands on manipulations, presentations, and
mathematical problem questions as appropriate. Students are encouraged to do homework and
review nightly in preparation.
5. Improving your grade- Extra credit will not be given unless the work is specifically designed
to provide more evidence of a student’s progress towards mastery of the established standards.
 Test corrections- Between test times you will be allowed to make corrections to your test
(before or after class or by appointment). Once corrections have been done, the student is
eligible to retake the test. Test retakes will be granted up to ONE WEEK after the date the
test grade is given. Tests, projects, Semester Exams, etc. may NOT be retaken.
 Book report- each semester you may read and present to the class a tri-fold book report. All
books must be approved and chosen by the fifth class period of each semester to be eligible
for presentation before the end of that semester. The points would go towards replacing a
low or missing assignment. Exact procedures are discussed on an additional handout.
 “Wild points”- when a project, presentation, or other assignment is so exceptionally done
that it makes the viewer say “wow” additional points may be given.
 Various other opportunities may arise throughout the year and will be discussed as they
become available.
Computer Use:
 VHS has a student WIFI system which extends throughout the school
campus. Students will be able to use their own laptops and net books during class,
at lunch, as well as before and after school. They will learn how to use Google
Apps and other internet based resources to store files, manage their portfolio, and
collaborate electronically. An emphasis will be placed on the appropriate use of
technology. At times, laptops will be available to check out.
 Technology will be used to enhance the collection and manipulation of data
in the chemistry lab. Students will also be given assignments that are technology
based. Each student is responsible for signing and abiding by the Acceptable Use Policy of the
Vista Unified School District and VHS. Students will be considered participating in academic
dishonesty if any materials are plagiarized from an Internet source. Therefore, all materials
must be cited appropriately at all times for all assignments.
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Controversial Issues:

During the year Nuclear Chemistry will be looked at in a pro-con manner in addition to the
facts. If you do not wish your child to participate in the exploration of the controversy
surrounding this issue (not the science), alternate work will be assigned for no loss of points.
Please indicate your desire for an alternate assignment in writing on the final signature page.
Make-Up/ Late Work:



All assignments are due at the beginning of the period on the established due date. Partial credit
will be given for incomplete work that is turned in on the due date (better to get some points
than none). When doing group work, be sure all members of the group have copies of all parts
of the project, just in case.
After any absence, a secondary student is required to initiate contact with the teacher to obtain
appropriate makeup work within three school days immediately following the absence. Once
contact has been made with the teacher, specific makeup work must be completed and returned
within a reasonable length of time, to be determined by the teacher and communicated to the
student/parent or legal guardian. The makeup work must be returned to the teacher by the
specified due date if it is to be acknowledged. Students shall be allowed a minimum of three
days to complete makeup work. Graded assignments turned in beyond the three days for
makeup work is considered late work.
Late work will be accepted one class period late for half credit. However,
assignments that were given before a students’ absence will be due the day
the student returns. If you miss 1 or 2 class days before a test/quiz, you
will still be required to take the test on the required day. Test/Quiz
makeups will be different from the original test or quiz, unless
prearranged, or for an excused absence. Quizzes and tests can be made
up until Friday (whether class meets or not) of the week they were given.
Citizenship Policy:
The following rubric will be used as a general guideline to determine student citizenship grade:
CATEGORY
Engagement
Preparation
Behavior
Outstanding
Satisfactory
Needs Improvement
Unsatisfactory
Consistently involved in
class activities; contributes
to overall learning
process; collaborates with
others and/or the teacher.
Does not engage in
class activities; rarely
demonstrates initiative
and may occasionally
disengage from class.
Not involved in class activities.
Adamant refusal to work.
Consistently prepared with
materials; work is on time
and may go beyond
expectations.
Engages in class
activities, but may
have to be
encouraged; works
with others or groups,
but may not initiate
collaboration.
Student has materials
and submits work in a
timely fashion and as
expected.
Consistently unprepared for
class. Does not submit work
on time or at all.
Consistently respectful of
both classmates and
adults; takes responsibility
for individual actions;
consistently complies with
school and classroom
rules.
Respectful to both
peers and adults.
Occasionally accepts
personal
responsibility. Mostly
complies with school
and classroom rules.
Student may have had
multiple instances of
being unprepared, late
work, or not completed
as requested.
Disruptive to others.
Argumentative and
defensive when
disciplined. Disregard
for school or class
rules.
Consistent disrespect to
classmates or adults. Regularly
disruptive to learning process
and violation of school or class
rules.
Plagiarism / Academic
Dishonesty
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Student citizenship grades are reported as follows:
O
=
Outstanding
S
=
Satisfactory citizenship
N
=
Needs Improvement
U
=
Unsatisfactory citizenship
Behavior Expectations:
It is a goal of Vista High School to create a college-like atmosphere where students, staff, teachers, and
administration interact in a collaborative, professional, and responsible manner. Behavior is important
in the classroom and values like trustworthiness, responsibility, respect, fairness, caring and
citizenship are character traits we should all strive for on an everyday basis.
Basic behavioral guidelines include:
 Students should be respectful when the anyone is presenting material to the class.
 Students should be collaborative and not destructive with another student’s learning.
 Students should engage in behaviors that are in their best interest, the best interest of others, or
in the best interest of Vista High School.
 The Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) regarding the use of technology should be followed at all
times.
 Depending on the severity of the infraction, consequences may include verbal warning, parent
contact, afterschool detention and/or assistant principal’s referral.
Tardy Policy:
A school-wide tardy policy will be enforced at VHS. Students who are tardy to class will be subject to
the discipline appropriate for the circumstance and the number of times tardy (as stipulated by the
school’s tardy policy).
Important items to note include:
 Students arriving to class after the tardy bell without a pass will be marked tardy.
 If the student is more than 30 minutes late to any class period, the student will be marked
absent. If the student is late due to a medical appointment, the parent/guardian must provide
documentation to the attendance clerk when the student arrives on campus.
Additional Class Rules:
1. Food/Drink- No food or drink, except water, will be allowed in the classroom, unless it is part
of a class project. Gum IS a food. If you have special dietary needs (ex: diabetic, peanut
allergies), please let me know so we can work through this.
2. Hall Passes- It is understood that life’s necessities sometimes call during class time. If you
need to step out, please use the designated Bathroom Pass and inform the instructor before you
do so.
3. Laboratories- These activities will be as safe as possible, yet still enjoyable for students. If a
student cannot participate appropriately, he/she will be given an alternate assignment.
4. Academic Integrity- It is expected that students will work together. However, all students
involved in outright copying, plagiarizing, or cheating of any kind will receive a zero on the
assignment. In addition, students may face additional consequences based on the severity of
the incident. Please see academic honor code for further clarification.
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Office Hours:
I will almost always be available before and after school for
make-up work and tutoring. Generally, my hours will be
6:45 am – 3 pm in room G12. Special appointments may be
scheduled on an individual basis. Please do not wait until
the last minute.
Modifications to Course Expectations
This course expectancy is subject to change. Students will receive an addendum to these course
expectancies if the instructor deems it necessary to make any modifications during the school year.
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Vista High School
Course Expectations Agreement
2015-2016
Chemistry
Mr. Hondros
Student Name: (print) _________________________________
Grade: _______
Student ID Number: ___________
Period: ______
By signing this page, both parent/guardian and student state that they have read and
understood the course expectations for the course named above.
The parent/guardian may contact the instructor with questions before signing.
Firmando esta página, tanto el padre o guarda como el estudiante declaran que han
leído y han entendido las expectativas de curso del curso nombrado anteriormente.
Antes de firmar, el padre o guarda puede communicarse con el instructor con
preguntas.
_______________________________________________ Date _________________________
Student’s Signature
_______________________________________________ Date _________________________
Parent’s Signature
“THE FUTURE BELONGS TO THOSE WHO PREPARE FOR IT.” – EMERSON
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