Sept2011Welcomecollegeprep(cp)chemistrystudents!C.docVIP

Sept 2011 Welcome college prep (cp) chemistry students! Chemistry is the study of matter, and the changes it undergoes. What do shampoo, potato chips, motor oil, cave formations and hot air balloons have in common? They are all made of chemicals, and will all serve as topics of discussion at some time this year. To learn about chemistry, you will have to apply the many skills you’ve learned in past grades. Chemistry involves reading, writing, drawing, careful observation, experimentation, critical thinking, logic, algebra and design. Safety is important, and requires a serious attitude. But learning about the properties and uses of matter can also be fun. The following pages (along with some additional material to be distributed in the first week) will inform you about the expectations and requirements for this course. Learning the material on these pages will help you to succeed. Sincerely, Mr. English CP chemistry course information Instructor Mr. English Grading: Students complete a variety of in-class activities and homework to prepare themselves for formal tests. There will be a special category on Parent Connect to report each student’s progress on these ungraded activities. These formative assessments can serve as a predictor of how each student will perform on upcoming tests. That said, the student’s final grade will be based largely on summative tests. 70% tests 30% labs, projects, safety and process notebook Work Expectations: All written questions must be answered thoroughly in full sentences (unless otherwise indicated). All calculations must be shown for math problems, including correct units. These same work standards apply to preparatory activities as well as graded assessments. Cite all references regardless of the assignment. Avoid extensive paraphrasing (even if cited). Lab work is often done in groups, but final reports must be written independently. Every student’s notebook should provide a complete record of their methods and obser