HONORS CHEMISTRY

Honors Chemistry Team:

Mrs. Paula Mueller - paula_mueller@ipsd.org
Mrs. Trisha Charnisky trisha_charnisky@ipsd.org
Mr. Matt Ragusa matthew_ragusa@ipsd.org
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course is an investigative,math intensive, college prep inorganic chemistry lab course. The
curriculum emphasizes: problem solving, critical thinking, scientific reasoning, science literacy, and
Next Generation Science Standards. Class activities include: lab investigations, group projects,
whiteboard presentations, tests, and quizzes. Honors chemistry students are expected to show
initiative, work independently and collaboratively in groups, and apply all previously learned skills
throughout the duration of the course.
Class Resources:
Text: (online) Introductory Chemistry Essentials (5th Edition)-ISBN-13: 978-0321919052
Class Website: nvchem.org
Mastering Chemistry (online resources)
Bozeman Science Video clips and more!
Remind-Text @hchem205 to 81010

WHAT TO BRING TO CLASS

A scientific calculator
Pen (blue/black ink) and Pencil
3-Ring Binder and notebook (Binder Checks may be done throughout the year)
Laboratory notebook (*to be purchased)
GRADES
Grades are calculated using a total point system. Homework points are no more than 10% of your
grade. The majority of your grade is made up of tests, quizzes, and labs..
Each semester counts as 80% of the semester grade. The final exam makes up the remaining 20%.
NVHS Grading Scale(%)
A 90 - 100
D 60-69
B 80 - 89
F 59 or lower
C 70 - 79

Semester grades (after the final exam is calculated into the grade) have already been rounded.
Do not beg for grades!
You are encouraged to keep all graded assignments for the semester to use as study guides/in the
event of a grading discrepancy.
Extra Effort points may be available occasionally throughout the course. These points do not serve as
a substitute for completing assignments nor will extra credit be given at the end of a semester to boost
your grade. Department agreement states that extra credit not exceed 2% of the total points for the
semester.
ATTENDANCE
Your consistent attendance is crucial to your success in this course. After an absence, it is your responsibility to find
out what work you missed on the Google Calendar that can be found on our Honors Chemistry webpage. At times, these
calendars will be modified. Pay attention in class to teacher announcements as well as checking the website regularly.
Changes to the schedule will also be given via Remind.** Only work missed for an excused absence can be made up.
Tests/quizzes will be made up after you return. In extenuating circumstances, certain assessments may be made up
prior to the absence.

HOW TO WIN AT CHEMISTRY!

-seek help before its too late; dont fall behind-use ARC!
-do more than the minimum required; extra studying pays off later; continuously review
-take pride in doing your OWN work
-Remember Chem-Is-Try!

WHAT IF I AM ABSENT?
TESTS/QUIZZES:

If you miss the day before a test, you will still take the test with the rest of
the class. (When all students are present on test day, a +2 is given on
your score!)

If you miss the day of the test, you must come in the next morning and
take the test in C205 at 6:30am. If make up tests are not made up the
next morning, you will take a test that is similar in content but will vary in
format from the test that was given on test day.

If you miss a quiz, make arrangements with your teacher to make up the
quiz within one day of your absence.
HOMEWORK:
Homework is given in order to introduce a topic that will be discussed, practice
new skills, and/or review what has already been taught in class. It may or
may not be graded. Always be prepared! IF homework is collected for
credit, it will be worth between 5-10 pts. Late homework is not accepted.
(Late is defined as anytime after the class period ends.) Homework quizzes
may/may not be announced. Online textbook homework is also assigned.
CLASSROOM POLICIES

Tardies, unexcused absences, suspensions, and dress code will all be handled in
accordance with the student handbook. It is your responsibility to read this and
understand the consequences for any infractions. If necessary, discipline will
include redirection, email home, phone call home, and/or referral to the dean.

Lab safety: You will sign and be held accountable for your behavior and
performance in the lab as per the Flinn Safety Contract. Noncompliance of lab
procedures and protocols will result in a zero on the lab and a referral to the Dean.

Mutual respect, preparation for class, and class participation is expected.

Cell phones are expected to be turned off/out of sight during class unless otherwise
specified by the teacher. During tests, all phones are put into the phone booth in
the classroom. It is your responsibility to remember to take your phone after class is
dismissed.

TEACHER AVAILABILITY
Mrs. Mueller/Mr. Ragusa-Before School usually in C205 or C206
Mrs.Charnisky-after school by appointment
Outside tutors are also available for long term needs. Please us the ARC during
your option as another way to receive extra help.
TOPICS OF STUDY
1st Semester: Safety, Measurement, Metrics, Density, Sig Figs,,Matter, Thermochemistry,
Atomic Structure, Ionic Bonding, Naming Compounds, Balancing Equations, Types of
Reactions, Moles
2nd Semester: Stoichiometry, Gas Laws, Electrons, Periodic Trends, Covalent Bonding and
Intermolecular Forces, Water/Aqueous Solutions, Solubility, Kinetics, Equilibrium,
Acid/Base, Redox (time permitting)