Chemistry 2016-17
Syllabus
Contact Information
E-mail: asims@weatherfordisd.com **this is the fastest way to contact me**
Phone: 817/598-2858 ext. 3620
Remind 101: text @simschem to 81010
Canvas Login Page: wisd.instructure.com
Twitter: @WHSims
What is Chemistry about?
As defined by the TEA, "In Chemistry, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students study a variety of topics that include characteristics of matter, use of the Periodic Table, development of atomic theory and chemical bonding, chemical stoichiometry, gas laws, solution chemistry, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Students will investigate how chemistry is an integral part of our daily lives."
Supplies Needed
- Pen/pencil daily
- Paper
- Binder/folder to store papers for reference
- Scientific calculator (available for $10 or less-I also have some you may borrow in class only)
Norms (Classroom Expectations)
- Be on-time.
- Be prepared.
- Be present (physically & mentally).
- Be respectful.
- Put your phone away unless we need it for class.
- Follow the classroom social contract.
Grades/Grading Policy
The grading policy will follow the WISD policy for grades. Here are some highlights:
- Grades will be divided into 2 categories: major (tests/projects): 50%, and minor (quizzes, daily work, labs, etc): 50%
- There will be a minimum of one grade per week.
- There will be at least 2 major grades per six weeks.
- If a student fails a test, they may come in to get tutorials, practice work, and retake ONE test for a 70 per six weeks.
- If a student is absent, it is their responsibility to get missing work right away and come to tutorials if needed. You have the number of days absent plus one day to turn work in.
- Due to the ample time students are given in class to complete assignments, extra credit is not typically given.
Tutorials
I am available for tutorials every Tuesday during MegaLunch (both blocks), and by appointment. Please come talk to me if you need to come in on a different day.
Other Important Stuff
- Lab safety violations will earn you an automatic office referral.
- If you are failing this class and do not attend tutorials or find other help, you are choosing to fail. Please make better choices.
- Copying, or allowing someone to copy, is not helping them to do anything but be lazy. Please encourage your classmates to think, reason, and work hard.
- There are dozens of ways chemistry is used in everyday life. I don't know how or when you'll use this stuff one day, but you at least need this class to graduate high school. Please do not think "I'll never use this again!" is a viable excuse to avoid the work.
- This year will be all about what you make it. Choose wisely.