Chemistry Overview

Content Overview - Chemistry 

The Chemistry curriculum is part of an integrated science curriculum 6-12. In grades 6-8 students are exposed to topics in the earth, life and physical sciences with appropriate  concepts and themes being addressed at each grade level. In grades 9-12 students take  more traditional classes in Earth science biology, chemistry and physics. 

Students in the Level 2 and Honors Chemistry courses will study the following general areas:  Measurement and the scientific method, applications of math to science, chemical and physical properties, elements, compounds and mixtures, chemical names and formulas, chemical equations, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, periodic properties, properties of solids, liquids and gases, gas laws, covalent and ionic bonding, hydrogen bonding, solutions and colligative properties.

In addition students in the honors program will explore the areas listed above in somewhat more detail.  For example, the theory of hybrid orbitals is covered in the unit on covalent bonding and shapes of molecules.  Honors students will also move through the curriculum at a faster pace.   This will leave time at the end of the year to explore additional chemistry topics. 

Unit Overviews - Chemistry 

Measurement and The Scientific Method 

This introduction to chemistry will provide a clear definition of chemistry and its many branches. It will include a historical development of modern chemistry as well as review safety and laboratory methods. Measurement using SI units will be emphasized and students will reinforce their understanding of significant figures and scientific notation. Dimensional analysis will be applied to problem solving and students will practice careful use of scientific equipment. Graphing will also be reviewed and used throughout the year. 

Elements, Compounds, Mixtures 

Physical and chemical properties and changes will be differentiated. Students will learn names and symbols for the more common elements on the periodic table. Separations of mixtures will be explored. Students will become familiar with chemical formulas and nomenclature. Calculations involving empirical formulas, molecular formulas and molecular mass will introduce the mole concept.  

Equations and Stoichiometry 

Descriptions of chemical reactions through chemical equations allow students to apply their understanding of the mole to calculate amounts of reactants and products. Balanced equations are used to solve problems using mass relationships. 

Kinetic Molecular Theory

Students will understand how temperature, pressure, volume and amount of substance are inter-related. These concepts will be applied in a study of the gas laws, partial pressure, molar volume, diffusion, states of matter, phase changes and intermolecular forces. 

Atomic Theory and The Periodic Table 

Early models of the atom are reviewed as an introduction to an in-depth study of subatomic particles, energy levels and quantum theory. The historical foundation of the periodic table and the use of the modern table to predict properties of elements are explained.  The electronic structure of the different elements is correlated with the position of the element in the periodic table. 

Bonding 

Ionic, covalent and metallic bonding are differentiated.  The valence shell/electron pair repulsion model is used to explain the geometry of simple molecules.     

Solutions 

Types of solutions and factors which affect solubility are studied in some detail. The various colligative properties of solutions of molecular compounds and ionic compounds are explained. 

Chemistry Materials and Resources  

Chemistry:  Matter and Change, McGraw Hill – Glencoe, 2005 (Honors)

Chemistry, 5^th edition, Prentice Hall, 2000 (Level 2 Chemistry) 

Audiovisual World of Chemistry video series, Annenberg/ CPB project

Data collection hardware and software:  Vernier LabPro interface to multiple sensor types, Palm Tungsten handheld computers, Vernier LoggerPro software for data analysis. 

Assessment Techniques 

1. Day to day evaluation based on classwork and homework.
2. Weekly evaluation of lab performance and lab reports.
3. Chapter tests are given as each unit of the curriculum is completed.  Quizzes may be given at any time between chapter tests.