SHS Mission Statement

At Sutton Memorial High School, we are committed to providing a foundation on which all students have the opportunity to pursue academic excellence and personal development in a safe, supportive, and challenging learning environment.

SHS Science Department Learning Expectations

The Science department encourages students to understand the process as well as the product of science. Through problem solving, critical thinking and the effective use of technology, students are expected to develop an awareness of the inquiry approach as a tool to gather information. The ultimate goal of science and technology is to apply knowledge of both the living and nonliving world to develop solutions and methods that enhance the world in which we live.

Course Description

The foundation of the curriculum in this science course is the Massachusetts Frameworks in Chemistry (MCAS). Classroom instruction is based on the inquiry approach, incorporating the scientific method. The SHS Learning Expectations (Communicator, Critical Thinker, Problem Solver, Cooperative Learner and Technology Use) are emphasized throughout this two-semester course.

Chemistry is the physical science that investigates matter, its composition and structure, and the changes that matter undergoes. Chemistry requires careful experimentation, observation and analysis to unlock the secrets of molecular behavior. Associated mathematics is used to understand quantitative relationships.

This introductory course is recommended for college preparation but may also be of interest to any student who wishes to know more about everyday chemistry applications. Frequent experiments are scheduled.

The following topics will be covered during the year:

-Properties of Matter -Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry

-Atomic Structure & Nuclear Chemistry -States of Matter, Kinetic Theory, and Thermochemistry

-Periodicity -Acids, Bases and Reduction-Oxidation Reactions

-Chemical Bonding

Objectives

By the end of the school year, the student will be able to:

utilize the scientific method during problem-solving tasks.
think critically in order to answer open-ended questions.
realize that science is a process as well as a product.
design, develop and interpret; graphs, flow charts, concept maps and tables for major concepts being learned.
become more alert to the problems of this modern world and understand the need and consequences of technology.
distinguish between different states of matter and know how these properties help to organize the elements on the periodic table.
better understand the nature of chemical changes by gaining knowledge about chemical reactions including the involvement of energy and sub-atomic particles.
recognize that various chemical reactions (i.e. oxidation-reduction, combustion and decomposition) occur around us everyday.
gain a deeper understanding of acids and bases, rates of reactions and factors that affect those rates.
calculate stoichiometric problems and molar concentrations, thereby strengthening their mathematical skills and knowledge of proportionality.
cooperate with classmates to promote a productive and respectful workplace.

Classroom Expectations

Students will be respectful to their classmates, teaching personnel and classroom guests at all times.
Students will arrive to class on time.
Students will be prepared for class with a science notebook (3-ring binder suggested), pen or pencil, textbook and homework materials.
Students will be expected to keep a notebook in which they keep their notes, labs, quizzes, tests, handouts and other assignments in chronological order. An organized notebook is the best study guide and will lead to success in my class.
Students will participate productively and appropriately.
Students will always work safely during laboratory activities.
There will be NO EATING or DRINKING in the classroom (with the exception of bottled water at your desk). This is for your safety. This is a science laboratory.
All school rules, policies and procedures listed in the Student Handbook will be followed in this classroom.

Grading Policy

45% Test/Quizzes

30% Labs/Projects

15% Homework

10% Comprehensive Exam

Homework Policy

Homework will be given to reinforce topics, techniques and skills covered in class. Chemistry can be confusing at times and is best mastered with plenty of practice. You will have several days to complete most homework assignments. This is to make sure you have ample amount of time to seek out extra help if necessary before the due date. Reading and reviewing the book and lecture notes should be conducted on a daily basis.

Late work will receive 10 points off for every day it is late. Assignments will not be accepted more than 2 days late. Work is due at the beginning of class.

Make-up Procedure

It is the students responsibility to obtain the missed assignments from the teacher and also to submit previously due assignments promptly upon their return. The policy is that for every day the student is absent, they have the same amount of extension on the assigned work. If any material was due the day of the absence, the material is due on the day of the return.

If a student is absent the day before an announced quiz or test, the student will be responsible for taking the quiz/test upon their return.

Extra Help

If a student is even a little confused, extra help sessions are strongly encouraged. I am available almost every day after school until 2:45PM. To ensure special attention, please contact the teacher 24 hours prior to the day you plan on staying after. If necessary, morning extra help sessions can be done, but only by special request.

If anyone has any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at anytime. I am always available before or after school. Please feel free to email me (bregmana@suttonschools.net) or call and leave a voicemail at ext. 4482. I will respond as quickly as possible. Thanks and I look forward to having a great year!

I have read Ms. Bregman’s Honors Chemistry syllabus and understand its contents. I agree to abide by all the rules and expectations listed.

Student Name (please print):_______________

Student Signature:_______________________

Date:____________

Parent Name (please print):_________________

Parent E-mail Address:____________________

Parent Signature:________________________

Date:________