HONORS CHEMISTRY
Signature School – 2015-2016
INSTRUCTOR – Mrs. Sudha Sankaran
E-mail sudha.sankaran@signature.edu
Phone 812-421-1820
Parent/Guardian Signature
_________________________________
I. Textbooks and Materials Needed
Textbook: Chemistry: Matter and Change (Glencoe)
A) A three ring binder with filler paper and 5 tabs.
1. Notes, 2. Handouts, 3. Labs, 4. Quizzes, and 5. Tests
B) A college ruled notebook that can be kept in the binder for notes.
C) Writing utensils – pencil, highlighter and red pen for corrections.
D) Scientific electronic calculator
II. Course Outline
The following is a brief outline for this course.
Introduction to Chemistry and Matter
Matter, Energy, and Change
Measurements and Solving Problems
Organization of Matter
Atomic Structure
Arrangement of Electrons in Atoms
The Periodic Law
Chemical Bonding
Organic Chemistry
The Language of Chemistry
Chemical Formulas and Compounds
Chemical Equations and Reactions
Stoichiometry
Phases of Matter
Physical Characteristics of Gases
Quantitative Description of Gases
Liquids
Solids
Kinetics and Equilibrium
Reaction rates
Determining Rate Laws
Using Equilibrium Expressions
Solutions and Their Behavior
Mixtures and Solutions
Ions in Aqueous Solutions
Acids and Bases
Acid-Base Titration and pH
Electrochemistry
Balancing Oxidation-Reduction
Reactions
Determining Cell Potential
III. Grading
A. Grading Scale: Each student's semester grade will be determined according to the following grading scale.
A: 90%-100%, B: 80%-89%, C: 70%-79%, D: 60%-69%
B. Grade Breakdown:
Quarterly: 60% tests, 25% Labs, & 15% Homework, assignments and quizzes
Semester: 1st semester 40%, 2nd semester 40%, & Finals 20%
These grades will be based on scores received on homework, lab reports, projects, quizzes, tests, and the finals.
B. Description of Grading Procedures:
1. Grade Opportunities
Formative Evaluations: All chapter homework will be due on the assigned due date. Homework will be
graded for completeness and accuracy, but keep in mind that the purpose of homework and other similar
assignments is to practice as you prepare for the major evaluation (test). These assignments as well as an
end of the quarter binder check will constitute approximately 10% of each student's semester grade.
Please note some instructions and on occasion assignments may be sent by email, students who have
issues with this need to see me in advance. I DID NOT CHECK MY E-MAIL IS NOT A VALID
EXCUSE
Major Evaluations: An test will be given at the end of each unit (about 100 points).
Quizzes, both announced and unannounced, will be given periodically. Each semester will conclude with a
cumulative final exam. These exams will constitute approximately 65% of each student's semester grade.
Lab Reports: One of the most important aspects of this course is the lab portion of the course. Your reports
will be graded for format, organization, accuracy, and neatness. Lab reports will constitute approximately
25% of each student’s semester grade.
2. Late Work: There will certainly be occasions when students are not able to hand in a particular
assignment on the designated due date, therefore this is the plan for accepting late work. For each day an
assignment is late you will lose 10% of the assignment's total point value, up to a maximum of 5 days at
which time the maximum value for the assignment will be 50% of its original point total. After 5 days, the
assignment will no longer be accepted except by special arrangements with me. Missed assignments due to
an excused absence are due on the day the student returns.
IV. Classroom Behavior Expectations
I will strive to provide a congenial, safe, and supportive environment for everyone to make this a wonderful
experience as we learn the various aspects of chemistry. Express yourself positively. No cruel teasing or put-downs,
no rude noises or gestures, no foul or abusive language. Respect one another. When involved with small group or
whole class discussion, pay attention to whoever has the floor. Follow instructions. Do your best to maintain a
positive attitude and a sense of humor. We all must respect each person’s right to learn!
NO cell phones, iPods, or other portable electronic devices in class!!!!!
a. Cell phones must be put away in a backpack or purse and out of site throughout the class period. They
must also either be turned off or on silent mode during class. NO iPods or CD players are allowed in the
classroom!
b. If there are circumstances or situations in which you will be expecting a very important call, please let
me know and we will work something out.
Extra Help/Tutoring/Parent Conferences:
If you need extra help I am available after school or during lunch. Please send me an e-mail or stop by and ask for
availability. I will make sure you get the help you need at the earliest. Parents can e-mail or call me with any
concerns
Student's Name_______________________________________________
Period_________
Students e-mail address _________________________________________________________
If parent/guardian would like to receive class work reminders via email, please write all pertinent email
addresses in the space below and you will be added to Mrs. Sankaran’s email list.