John Jay High School
Regents Chemistry 1997-98
Mr. Cardella

Course Objectives

Regents Chemistry is an exploratory course which allows students to discover the fundamental principles of chemistry which shape the world we live in. The course content is governed by the New York State Board of Regents, and all students in the class will take a statewide Regents Exam in Chemistry in June.

This course is about more than just Chemistry, however, and students will be expected to demonstrate growth and increased competence in other skill areas, which will include, but not be limited to: communication, cooperation with peers, research techniques, problem solving, and appreciation of science and learning in general. It is my hope that this will be a fun process for all.

This year will prove to be especially challenging for all of us, due to the ongoing construction that is reshaping our campus. With patience and flexibility, the inconveniences can be overcome, and a successful year had by all.

The Syllabus

This is the general topic outline for the entire year in Regents Chemistry.

• Matter & Energy - phase changes, physical vs. Chemical properties, density
• Classifications of Matter - elements, compounds, mixtures
• Atomic Structure - protons, neutrons, electrons, mole concept
• Electron Configuration - quantum numbers, Bohr model, emissions spectra
• Nuclear Chemistry - radioactivity, half-life, fission, fusion
• Periodic Table - Mendeleev, organization, trends, periods, families
• Bonding - electronegativity, ionic, covalent, metallic, crystals, naming compounds
• Chemical Formulas - formula weight, % composition, empirical formulas
• Balancing Equations - types of reactions, stoichiometry
• Gases - properties, gas laws
• Liquids & Solids - properties, phase changes, calorimetry
• Solutions - solubility curves, ionization, electrolytes, molarity, molality
• Kinetics & Equilibrium - potential energy diagrams, stress, forward & reverse rxns
• Acids, Bases, & Salts - properties, titration, pH
• Redox & Electrochemistry - oxidation, reduction, half-reactions, electrical potential
• Organic Chemisrty - hydrocarbon groups, naming orgainc molecules

There is a great amount of material to cover, and it will require dilligent effort on the part of the student to complete the course by the first week of June, thus allowing a week of review for the Regents Exam. Along the way, there will be many labs, demonstrations, and other opportunities to see how chemisty effects our daily lives. Strong mathematical skills, a willingness to accept abstract ideas, and a good work ethic are key ingredients to successful completion of this course.

General Procedures

• The Class:
• Be Here On Time!
• No two ways about it folks, attendance is a vital part of class participation, and your timely attendance (or lack thereof) will be reflected in your grade!
• IF for some unfathomable reason you are late, do NOT disrupt class with an excuse. Leave your signed pass on the front desk and quietly take your seat. If you feel the need to explain further, see me after class.


• Preparation:
• It is not enough that you just arrive on time; you must also be prepared for class.
• This means having all class materials with you, including pens, pencils, notebook, homework assignments, lab handouts, and calculators.
• It is up to you, not me to have these items ready in the event that they are needed.


• The Notebook:
• 3-Ring Binder for notes, handouts, and homework.
• String-bound Composition Book for Labs. No Spirals or Perforated Books!
• Manila Folder for Lab Write-ups (provided).


• Food:
• None. Simple policy: I see it, you lose it.
• This is not me being the bad guy; it simply is not a good practice to place anything into your mouth in the laboratory.
• Safety first, last, always.


• Textbook:
• Modern Chemistry, by Metcalfe, et al, 1986.
  Cover it. Use it. It�s not helping you by sitting in your locker...
• Reviewing Chemistry, by Demmin for Amsco. 1997 edition.
  This softcover review book has many helpful sample problems, and several complete NYS Regents Exams for review.


• Homework:
• Do it. I don�t give homework just so you have something to complain about, and if I take the time to assign it, I�ll most likely grade it. Why take a chance?
• Use the following heading on all work to be handed in:
  • Your Name
  • The Date
  • Assignment


• Lab Reports:
• Approximately once every two weeks a lab exercise will require a write-up.
• Lab Reports MUST BE TYPED, Word Processed, or Computerized.
• Follow the format on the accompanying Lab Report Format handout.
• All labs will be collected, graded, and kept in Lab Folders.
• Labs are Required for Regents Credit.


• Absences:
• Excused - The student is responsible for getting make-up work from me the day that the student returns to class. A deadline for the make-up assignments will be given at that time. I will not chase you down.
• Unexcused Absence ("cut") - 33% penalty to Class Participation Grade.
• Unexcused Lateness ("tardy") - 11% penalty to Class Participation Grade.


• Grading:
• Quarter Grades will be determined by the following formula:
• Tests.........................................40%
• Lab Reports..............................25%
• Homework & Quizes.................20%
• Class Participation.....................15%
• attitude
• involvement
• preparation
• attendance
• effort/improvement
• A grade of 'Incomplete' will only be given due to excessive legal absences near the end of a quarter, and appropriate work must be made up within two weeks.


• Extra Help:
• I will be available to offer extra help to students after school on Wednesdays, and by appointment on any other day. Please feel free to utilize extra help sessions whenever you feel the need; I am always happy to help - just ask me!


• Conduct Requirement:
• Show respect and courtesy towards everyone in the class, and expect the same consideration in return.

Failure To Comply With The Above Expectations Will Result In A Meeting Between The Student And Myself (And If Necessary, A Parent) To Discuss How To Improve The Problem Area.

Please sign below to indicate that you understand the expectations of this course.

__________________________________________________________

(Student Signature)(Parent Signature)