The course and its content The learning objectives for my Regular chemistry course at The Westminster Schools can be read here. Please note.
- The learning objectives published at the start of the course should be viewed as provisional and as such is subject to minor alteration from time to time. You will always be given sufficient notice of changes.
- This course is NOT designed to prepare students for the SAT subject test in chemistry nor any examination other than the internally assessed one.
The Textbooks I do not insist that students have a textbook and I will not be referencing one during the course. Students will need John Emsley’s, Molecules at an Exhibition during the 2nd semester only.
The course notes The notes amplify the content of the whole course. The notes are vitally important to students as they form a permanent, hard copy record that summarizes of all the knowledge and understanding that students require in order to perform well in the Regular chemistry course. Each set of notes should be used and annotated however the student sees fit. They must be used as the basis for study.
My website All the materials for the course can be downloaded from the website. It is your responsibility to visit the site to get materials as and when they are needed. In addition to the course material you will find a very large amount of other helpful information there. You are required to visit regularly.
adriandingleschemistrypages.com
The expectations In order for us all to have a successful year we have to work together. There are two sides to this partnership.
- Student obligations. I hope it goes without saying that attendance, punctuality, courtesy and good behavior of the highest levels are expected at all times. On the occasions when it is unavoidable that a class is missed it remains the responsibility of the student to catch up with any material missed. Laboratory safety is always of paramount importance. You exemplary behavior and observance of safety procedures is required at all times. Students who take the initiative for their own learning and who are prepared to think around problems to find solutions usually fare better. Please seek help and use office hours if you are having difficulties.
- My commitment. I will always grade and return work to you as soon as possible and will be happy to review any problems that arise from it. I am always happy to speak to students and parents outside of class time, as and when time permits.
The assessment The course will be assessed in three areas.
- Testing. Tests will be given at the end of each topic. Tests will make up 50% of each semesters final grade. Tests will typically have two sections, one with multiple-choice questions and one with free-response questions.
- Homework & Quizzes. Homework & Quizzes will be set on a regular basis and deadlines must be met. Homework & Quizzes will make up 30% of the FIRST semester final grade and 25% of the SECOND semester final grade.
- Examinations. All material studied in the FIRST semester will be assessed in a written examination in December 2017 worth 20% of the FIRST semester final grade. Material studied during the SECOND semester will be assessed in a written exam in May 2018 worth 25% of the SECOND semester final grade.
Adrian Dingle
August 2017
