Chemistry Honors

Course Syllabus
Lauderhill 6-12
Instructor: Kenneth R. Ward - MEd, BS Chemistry
Email: kenneth.ward@browardschools.com
Website: ward-science.weebly.com

COURSE DESCRIPTION
Science is both a systematic body of knowledge and a method of thinking and problem solving. The
philosophy of this class is to involve the student in both aspects of science with the hope that the
student will gain appreciation of the current science problems and an ability to question, evaluate, and
solve problems in a logical manner. Chemistry involves the study of matter and how energy transfer
changes this matter.
INSTRUCTIONAL PHILOSOPHY
A students success in this course will be solely based on the level of commitment of the individual. It
has been shown with past experience that there are certain guidelines for success such as: good
attendance, class participation, studying for tests, and turning in all assignments when due. By utilizing
creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking, it is my desire for you to achieve great
success throughout this course. A growth mindset will be infused throughout the progression of this
course to help with your success.
COURSE EXPECTATIONS
The nature of a laboratory oriented class requires more than the usual amount of attention and self-
control. Full cooperation is expected at all times. Failure to listen and understand instructions could
result in injury. Any deviation from described format or disciplinary procedure will be considered
unsatisfactory citizenship and may result in a less than desirable grade for the group.
WEBSITE
On my website you will find a schedule for each unit along with helpful resources and other information.
Canvas will also be introduced throughout this course as an added resource.
COURSE MATERIALS
Notebook, Scientific calculator, writing utensil, 3 ring notebook for handouts
DAILY NORMS
1. Take assigned seats, write the date and work on the DO NOW.
2. Please keep sidebar conversations to a minimum during lectures. If you have a question a question or
comment, please raise your hand.
3. Please be courteous and respectful to everyone in the class who is asking a question or giving an
answer.

OUTLINE OF TOPICS
Properties of Matter Stoichiometry
Atomic Structure Properties of Gases
Periodic Table Solutions
Bonding Acids & Bases
Chemical Reactions Equilibrium
The Mole Nuclear Chemistry

COURSE ASSESSMENT / INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Students will be required to take lecture notes. Quizzes will be given periodically. Typed lab reports will
be required for certain labs. Formative and summative assessments will be given based on lecture notes,
homework problems, and lab activities. A STEM project will be required for each semester. A mid-year
exam will be given at the end of the 1st semester with a cumulative final exam and the end of the 2nd
semester.
GRADING METHOD
Grades will be based on a total point scale per quarter. The following are the categories along with
assessed points:
Unit Tests/Projects/Notebook 100 pts
Major Labs 30 pts
Minor Labs 20 pts
Quizzes 25 pts
Unit Classwork/Homework 50 pts

Grading distribution
A 90 100 C 70 76
B+ 87 89 D+ 67 69
B 80 86 D 60 69
C+ 77 79 F 0 59
You are expected to double-check your grades through pinnacle weekly to make sure I have not made
any mistakes.
CLASS EXPECTATIONS
1. All students are expected to adhere to the following rules in addition to school policy.
2. Come to class prepared with the necessary materials EVERY DAY.
3. Be IN your seat engaged with the daily Do Now when the bell rings.
4. Raise your hand and wait to be recognized before speaking.
5. Be respectful towards others and their belongings.
DARE TO CARE (Be Courteous, Be Accountable, Be Respectful, Be Empathetic)
CLASSWORK/HOMEWORK POLICY
Classwork will be assigned as a reinforcement to lecture notes and learned concepts. In Addition,
homework will be assigned periodically for each unit. Any assignments not completed in class will also
need to be completed homework. Please keep up with all assignments to insure your success in this
course.

LATE WORK
Late work will be accepted 4 times during the semester without penalty. You have been given 4 late
passes which allow you to turn in an assignment 1 school day late without penalty. After one day, 20%
will be deducted. Assignments after 5 days past the due date will have 50% deducted.
REMEDIATION
Students may retest provided they attend tutoring session to complete test corrections. The retest will
be given on the second Wednesday after the test is returned. Retesting will only occur on that one day.
The date will be posted in the classroom. The retest will be averaged with the original test grade to
calculate the final grade for that unit test. Remediated test scores will not replace quizzes.
EXTRA HELP
Extra help will be available Tuesday and Thursday before school from 8am -9am. The schedule will be
posted. Wednesday tutoring will be during ALL lunches. You will need to get a pass from me in order to
come to my room.
ABSENCES / MAKE-UP WORK
It is very important that you be present in class, especially on days of graded assignments (labs, quizzes,
and tests). At the high school level, I must allow make-up work, so make-up work will be handled on an
individual, as need basis. I expect assignments which are due on a day you are absent to be turned in
upon your return. All makeup work will be handled based on Broward County School Boards policy.
COUNTY HEALTH / LAB SAFETY GUIDELINES
1. Students must wear goggles during labs. 2. Students who are not appropriately groomed will not be
permitted to do the lab. This includes shoes, pants, shirts, blouses, etc. All wearing apparel must fit
appropriately. 3. Open faced shoes and sandals are not permitted in the lab. Alternative assignment will
be given.