Chemistry

Teachers: Mrs. Sara Cann, Ms. Maria Hall, Mr. Skip Larrington

 

Levels: College Bound

            Advanced

            AP - Second Year Course

 

Registration guide information

• College Bound Chemistry is designed to provide students with a detailed understanding of the interaction of matter and energy. Chemistry is a math-intensive course. This interaction is investigated through the use of laboratory techniques, manipulation of chemical quantities, and problem-solving applications. Scientific methodology will be employed in experimental and analytical investigations, and concepts will be illustrated with practical applications. Technology, including graphing calculators and computers, will be employed where feasible. Students will understand and use safety precautions. The course emphasizes qualitative and quantitative study of substances. Students will be encouraged to share their ideas, use the language of chemistry, discuss problem-solving techniques, and communicate effectively.

• Advanced Chemistry is a challenging, math-intensive, fast-paced course which requires competence and depth in solving chemical problems, sharp reasoning and analyzing skills, advanced intellectual engagement, rigorous laboratory work, and intensive and independent out of class writing and problem-solving assignments. This course will cover interaction of matter and energy, quantitative and qualitative studies of substance changes, experimental and analytical investigations, manipulation of chemical quantities, extensive research, language of chemistry, chemical calculations, and formulation of principles. The use of technology, including calculators and computers with scientific probes and sensors, will be employed where feasible.

• Advanced Placement Chemistry is a second-year, laboratory-centered chemistry course. Students should attain a depth of fundamental understanding and reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. AP Chemistry should enhance the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express ideas. This course differs qualitatively with respect to the kind of textbook used, the topics covered, the emphasis on chemical calculations, and the mathematical formulation of principles. Extensive laboratory time is required.

 

Other Information: 

 

College Bound Chemistry and Advanced Chemistry cover essentially the same material with slightly more depth in Advanced Chemistry. Also, Advanced Chemistry requires participation in a Science Fair project whereas College Bound Chemistry does not. Both course require that students think and reason rationally and logically. Both courses require a solid foundation in both mathematics and other science courses. It is assumed that students have mastered the concepts covered in previous courses. For example, using scientific notation, using the metric system, algebraic manipulation, calculating geometric angles, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, types of energy, and understanding and being able to apply the basics of the periodic table are all concepts that should have been mastered in earlier courses. Students without this foundation should not enroll in any Chemistry class. Chemistry students are usually juniors or seniors.

 

Students may brush up on their math and science skills by visiting the Chemistry Preparation web site developed by our teachers.