Self-Paced Chemistry

 Note: This course uses the Apologia chemistry textbook which does contain explicitly Christian content. The course lectures and assignments do not.

Do you want your student to have a solid high school science course, but need a flexible schedule? This self-paced Chemistry course allows you to have both. The course opens in June and closes at the end of June, allowing students to complete assignments at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Self-Paced Chemistry provides students with an understanding of chemical principles and skills that are needed for college. We will study connections between the everyday world and the molecular world, and the structure and interactions of matter. In addition, we will examine the smallest components of matter (atoms) and how atoms bond with each other to combine elements into compounds. Then we will look at chemical reactions: how energy is involved, the transfer of electrons or hydrogen ions, and factors that affect reaction rate.

Our study of chemistry will also include laboratory investigation, problem solving activities, textbook study, and video lectures. The structure and properties of matter, organic and inorganic chemistry, energy, thermochemistry, nuclear reaction, electrochemistry, acids, bases and salts, and chemical bonding make up the content of this class.

Course Structure

For each module in the text, students will be provided with two video lectures with questions to be submitted, two online homework “quizzes,” textbook questions to be completed and checked independently, several labs to be recorded in a lab notebook (not submitted), and a module test consisting of multiple choice, short answer, and worked-out answers to be submitted electronically. A suggested schedule is for students to complete a module every two weeks. In addition to these assignments, a final exam will be required at the end of the course. No live classes will be held, but students may ask questions on the course web site as necessary.

Who should enroll?

The well-prepared applicant is in grades 9-12, has completed a physical science or general science course, and has a good foundation in algebra. Also, self-paced learning requires a great degree of organizational and time management skills on the part of the student. Students who are ready to improve in this area and can take responsibility for initiating interaction with the instructor for help should register for this course. The qualified student will be able to responsibly spend 5-7 hours per week on this class.

Prerequisite: Pre-algebra or equivalent 8th grade math.

Technology Requirements

• High speed, broadband Internet
• Sound card and microphone (for live sessions)
• Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures
• Scanner or smart phone for submitting tests and homework

Evaluation and Feedback

Students will be graded on homework, module tests, and the final exam. Their work will be graded every two weeks.

Communication

Grades are perpetually available throughout the course and parents may contact me through Canvas messages on the course website.