Chemistry Class Rules and Syllabus

There are a couple simple rules that we all must abide in order to have a pleasant experience in this class. I keep it short, but I expect full compliance, so listen up.

Tardies

I follow the school policy on tardies. Sure, you might be late once in a while, but (a) if you're tardy 4 times I'll make you do some cleaning at lunch (b) if you're late more than 4 times then I'm going to send your name off to Crook/Reese.
On the same-ish subject... You can leave the room to use the restroom without asking- just take the pass. You cannot leave for any other reason without asking or leave during the first 10 minutes.

Absent Work

If you are absent, the procedure is pretty simple. You have to do 3 things.

1. Check your packet and/or with fellow students to see what we did
2. Look in the "Absent" basket to find any worksheets/labs that you need to make up
3. Lab makeups will be posted on the lab makeup clipboard, so check that too
4. THEN (and ONLY then), talk to me about new due dates and I will write your new due dates on your packet. DON'T SKIP THIS STEP!
5. If you say "did I miss anything important" or something equally offensive, then I'll be sure to double the work.

Just remember that being absent usually hurts your grade. In Science there are several learning experiences that cannot be duplicated outside of class. So try to come to class as much as possible.

During Class

I ask that you (a) stay on task and (b) contribute to the class learning experience (c) help others in the class learn. Whether that means working on an assignment, playing a game, or doing a lab, I want everyone to be physically AND mentally present.
Don't talk when I'm talking period. I try to keep my talking to a minimum so I simply demand your attention when I do it.
You have to ask permission to use the lab area during class.
Materials you need every day: pen/pencil, paper, and calculator (+periodic table and Chem info sheet which will be handed out later). Notice cell phone and ipod are not on the list.

During Labs

It's so so so so important that you practice proper lab safety. Since it's so important, I will have no tolerance for people who behave inapproprately. What does "inappropriately" mean, you ask? Any of the following:

1. Running, hitting, throwing things... anything which can inadvertantly spill or break lab materials
2. Not following the directions for a lab- that means no unauthorized experiments
3. Playing with lab supplies or water taps
4. Not wearing proper safety attire- lab goggles at a minimum

Grades

Chemistry will be graded with a percentage/weighted system.

• homework/classwork = 20%
• labs/projects = 25%
• tests/quizzes = 40%
• midterm/final = 15%

I know this system makes it complicated to keep track of your grades. I will post grades in the classroom each time I update them + I'll have them posted on Synergy. Keep close track and be sure to alert me to any mistakes ASAP.

I am available for extra help just about any time.  Please use this!  Most people find that if they are falling behind, coming in for 10 minutes makes a big difference.

Homework

You'll have homework. I wouldn't give it to you unless I thought it significantly helped your learning. So, do it.  Late homework always receives a 50% penalty-- unless you come in for extra help, then I'll give you full credit.


Tips for Success

• Participate! It will help you understand and remember the material.
• Ask questions as soon as you are confused. Ask during class, after class, during tutorial… just ask!
• Come to class and come on time with your daily supplies.
• Complete your own homework and lab reports.
• Stay organized.
• Take advantage of all available extra credit opportunities.
• Most of all, enjoy the class.