C h e m i s t r y
H o n o r s
S y l l a b u s
2 0 1 5 - 1 6
Ms. Abbey Zinsser
Email: azinsser@tustin.k12.ca.us
Course Description:
Chemistry is a yearlong college preparatory science course which studies matter at its atomic level.
There will be laboratory experiments performed as well as written observation and mathematical
applications of chemical theory. Students will learn to apply Chemistry and become involved in the
process of science. This course will cover California Chemistry Standards, Common Core Standards and
introduce the new Next Generation Science Standards. This course demands a high level of motivation
and a firm understanding of Algebra.
Chemistry is a course in which daily attendance is a requirement for success. It is essential that the
student come to class ON TIME ready to learn. In addition, a calculator that can perform scientific
functions is recommended. It is extremely difficult to regain the complete nature of missed discussions
and laboratory experiments are virtually impossible to make up successfully.
Chemistry is a conceptual subject. Many of the essential concepts are by nature abstract and difficult
for students to grasp. The student must commit himself/herself to reviewing notes, reading the text and
studying the material on a daily basis in order to master it sufficiently. This individual commitment on
the part of the student forms the foundation for success at the college or university level.
Materials:
In order to have a fulfilling and successful chemistry experience it is highly recommended that each
student come prepared with the following materials by the second week of school.
 3-ring binder with loose leaf paper to keep notes, homework and lab handouts/reports
 Scientific calculator
 Blue/black pen and a pencil
 Red or green pen, used for in-class corrections
 Highlighter
 School-issued laptop
Attendance:
I will strictly adhere to the attendance and tardy policies of Tustin High School. All students are
responsible for knowing and following the rules.
Grading:
The student’s grade is determined by a point system. Accumulated individual points will be posted on a
regular basis. Students are responsible for monitoring progress and checking for accuracy. The grading
scale is based on the following weighted categories:
Weight
40%
25%
20%
15%
Category
Test + quizzes
Labs + projects + activities
Homework + classwork
Semester final
Percent
90%
— 100%
80%
—
89%
70%
—
79%
60%
—
69%
Below 60%
Letter
A
B
C
D
F
Homework:
Homework will be assigned every day. Homework is always done in pencil with all calculations shown.
Homework is stamped or collected on the specified due date. This is a student’s time to practice what
we have discussed in class without jeopardizing too many points. Point value will range based on the
assignment. Some assignments will be graded for completion, while others will be graded for accuracy.
Any homework turned in after its due date will be considered late and will receive half credit. I will only
accept late homework up until the time of the test for that unit. After the unit test, late homework will
not be accepted.
A few things to remember:
1. If I can’t read it I can’t grade it…sloppy work, no name and/or title will result in a zero.
2. ABSENT WORK – write “Absent” on the top of any assignment turned in late due to an absence
 No points will be deducted for excused absent work
3. LATE WORK – assignments will be collected at the beginning of the period, if not then it’s late.
 Late work can be turned in up until the unit exam to
 A maximum of 50% of the assigned points can be earned
Tests/Quizzes:
Quizzes will be given in between unit tests and can be made up during tutorial. Unit tests will be given at
the end of a unit and based on the understanding of concepts as well as the ability to perform
homework examples. Tests will need to be made up during lunch or after school.
Attendance Policy:
 I will strictly adhere to the attendance and tardy policies of Tustin High School. All students are
responsible for knowing and following the rules.

Absences
o Students with “Excused Absences” may make up assignments for full credit.
o Tests and assignments given before an absence are expected to be completed the day you
return to school.
o It is up to the STUDENT, not the TEACHER, to track and turn in missed work from an absence.
o Laboratory exercises are made up during tutorial or at designated times within 1-2 weeks.
This is not an unlimited time frame and postponement on your part can result in a zero.
o Unexcused absences will result in a zero on assignments collected the day of the absence(s)
CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR/Policies
 I expect all of my students to be in their seat when the bell rings with all of the required
materials.
 Students must always have respect for their instructor, their classmates, themselves and
materials in the classroom.
 Cellphones should be out of sight If a cellphone is out, I will take it and return it at the end of
the period. If a cellphone is out on a regular basis, I will take it, a referral will be written and will
need to be picked up by a parent in the office.
 No food allowed at any time. This is a lab class after all.
 Students must adhere to all school and classroom rules. Students who choose not to follow
classroom rules will receive consequences.
Academic Integrity
Student collaboration is encouraged on all activities in this class. We are a team and we learn together!
However, participating in academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, copying, emailing answers, sharing
work electronically, or cheating, is a serious offense and will result in a zero on that assignment and a
parent phone call for all students involved. Such repeated behaviors will result in detentions, referrals,
possible failure/removal from class, and district consequences. Please review the THS academic honesty
policy.
Think critically across the curriculum
Effectively communicate:
through:

 integrating WICOR strategies
 creating and developing high quality
products
 analyzing multiple sources
Advance literacy:
 while innovating, discovering, and
taking risks
 through synthesis and analysis of a
rigorous curriculum
 by exploring cultural, scientific,
global, and visual competencies


using a wide range of media and
technology
by taking personal, social, and civic
responsibility
fostering positive interactions with
our diverse population
Manage time and resources effectively by:
 prioritizing, planning and achieving
results
 using real-world tools
 balancing physical and mental fitness
Need Help? Never be afraid to ask me for help if you are struggling with the
content or any aspect of the class or just need something clarified. I WILL make
special time for those students who ask for it. I am here to help you and I want
you to succeed. This means that at the first sign of trouble I strongly recommend
you approach me and we can make sure your chemistry experience is a wonderful
and rewarding one.
Dear Student: The Constitution of the State of California requires that we provide a public education to
you free of charge. Your right to a free education is for all school/educational activities, whether
curricular or extracurricular, and whether you get a grade for the activity or class. Subject to certain
exceptions, your right to a free public education means that we cannot require you or your family to
purchase materials, supplies, equipment or uniforms for any school activity, nor can we require you or
your family to pay security deposits for access, participation, materials, or equipment. Under certain
circumstances, students involved in extracurricular programs, clubs and/or sports may be required to
attend fundraising events held by the program, sport or club just as you may be required to attend any
other event put on by that program, club or sport. However, you will not be required to raise funds as a
condition of participation.
Honors Chemistry SYLLABUS AGREEMENT 2015-2016
Tustin High School
Please complete and return…
STUDENTS
I have read and discussed the course requirements and classroom rules with my parents/guardians. I
understand and agree by all the information and rules set forth in these pages.
______________________________________ ________________________________________
Print Student Name
Student Signature
____________
Period
______________
Date
PARENTS
I have read and discussed the course requirements and classroom rules with my student. I understand
and agree that my student’s success requires my support. To stay involved in my child’s education, I
have included my email and/or phone (or the best way to contact me) below:
______________________________________
Print Parent/Guardian Name
________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
______________________________________
Language Spoken at Home
_______________________________________
Phone Number (circle one: cell, home, or work)
___________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian’s email (if applicable)