Science Department Courses - Chemistry


    Grade: 11 - 12

    Duration: 2 Semesters

    Prerequisite: M2 Algebra II concurrently

    Credit: 0.5 per Semester

    The basic principles and concepts of Chemistry will be covered. First Semester topics include: measurement, classification and properties of matter, atomic theory, nuclear reactions, electronic structure, the Periodic Table, chemical names and formulas, ionic and covalent bonding. . The second Semester includes: chemical equations, reactions, mole concept, stoichiometry, gas laws, solutions, acids and bases, If time permits: rates of reaction, equilibria, oxidation-reduction reactions and electrochemistry,

    Students will utilize a variety of instrumentation in the laboratory. Computer programs will be used for data analysis. Students perform lab work in topic areas and lab reports with analysis of data required. A minimum grade of 65 is required to take Semester II.

    Text: Chemistry, Matter and Change, Buthelezi, Dingrando, et al., McGraw Hill-Glencoe



    Grade: 10 - 11

    Duration: 2 Semesters

    Prerequisite: M3 Algebra II concurrently; Department Approval/ Instructor Recommendation

    Credit: 0.5 per Semester

    This is a more rigorous treatment of the concepts encountered in Chemistry in that extensive quantitative problem solving is employed throughout. The first semester includes: measurements, classification and properties of matter, molecular structure, electronic structure, nuclear reactions, atomic theory, mole concept, chemical equations, stoichiometry, gas laws, electronic structure, the Periodic Table and covalent bonding. The second semester includes: solutions, rates of reaction, equilibria, thermochemistry, acids and bases, electrochemistry and organic chemistry. Students will utilize such instruments as the pH meter, light meter, and visible range and near infrared spectrophotometer.

    Laboratory instrumentation is used extensively. Computer graphing and spreadsheet programs will be used to analyze laboratory data. Lab work, based on concepts presented in class, will be performed and lab reports are required.

    Text: Chemistry - Principles and Reactions, Masterton and Hurley, Saunders.



    (College Board Approved)

    Grade: 10 - 12

    Duration: 2 Semesters

    Prerequisite: Grade of 80 in Honors Chemistry or 90 In Chemistry*; M3 Algebra II; Department Approval/ Instructor


    Credit: 0.5 per Semester

    AP Chemistry is a fast-paced, laboratory intensive course designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Examination in Chemistry. Students will use a variety of technology to collect and analyze data in the laboratory and will cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations. Students will explore topics such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. Conceptually, the major emphasis is on developing an understanding of the structure and function of atoms and molecules and their system dynamics.

    Each laboratory will require a detailed lab report. A graphing calculator will be used extensively. Enrollment in this course involves a mandatory summer assignment.

    Text: Chemistry, AP edition, 9th edition, Zumdahl and Zumdahl