Introduction to Chemistry for Grades 9-12 (11:00)

Course Name: Introduction to Chemistry for Grades 9-12
Grade Range: 9th-12th 
Instructor: Rachel Marquez
Email: rchlmarquez@gmail.com
Price: $425 for 28 weeks
Course Description: 
Introduction to Chemistry is a comprehensive and engaging course designed for students with little to no prior knowledge of chemistry. This course will introduce students to the fundamental principles and concepts of chemistry that among other things includes atomic structure, chemical bonding, and chemical reactions. Throughout this course, students will develop a strong foundation in chemical concepts, including the properties of matter, chemical formulas, and chemical equations. Introduction to Chemistry course will also cover topics such as acids and bases, thermochemistry, and stoichiometry, as well as the use of laboratory equipment and the interpretation of data.
This course will encourage students to develop critical thinking skills as they analyze and interpret data, solve problems, and conduct experiments, and will also help students develop essential laboratory skills, including data collection and analysis, and the safe handling of chemicals.
By the end of this course, students will not only have a solid understanding and foundation of chemistry, but will also be able to safely perform a variety of chemical experiments, keep a tidy lab notebook, and write a formal lab report.
This comprehensive course fulfills one full-year credit in Science of the three required by the state of North Carolina for high school graduation.
Course Prerequisites:
•    It is strongly recommended that the students have a basic foundation in Algebra. Having completed through algebra 1 before taking this course will be highly beneficial to the student.
Curriculum used by Instructor: Apologia Exploring Creation with Chemistry, 3rd Edition
Books & Supplies required for purchase by families: 
•    Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Chemistry, 3rd Edition ≈$87.00 new (can be bought cheaper used)
•    3-ring binder
•    Scientific calculator (TI-84 strongly recommended)
•    A college-ruled bound composition notebook
•    Safety goggles (not glasses)
Homework Requirements: 
• Reading chapters
• Study guides
• Tests
• There will be 4 formal lab reports due spread throughout the year
• Lab quizzes
Duration: 28 weeks
Grading: A-F weighted grading scale
Class Participation (20%):
Active engagement in class discussions
Asking questions and contributing to group activities
Homework Assignments (20%):
Regular completion and submission of assigned homework
Demonstrating a clear understanding of the material
Lab Reports (20%):
Comprehensive reports on experiments conducted during lab sessions
Emphasis on methodology, results, and analysis
Quizzes (15%):
Short, regular assessments to gauge understanding
Covering recent topics and ensuring ongoing comprehension
Exams (25%):
Comprehensive assessment covering the material from each section
Students will be able to drop their lowest assessment score
Teacher Bio:  Rachel Marquez, BS, MPH
Rachel holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology and a Master's degree in Public Health, providing a comprehensive foundation in both life sciences and public health disciplines. With a genuine love for teaching, Rachel has previously shared her expertise as an educator for Apologia Science Curriculum at Kingdom Education for Young Scholars in Phoenix, AZ. This experience allowed her to engage with young minds, fostering a curiosity for science.In addition to her work with homeschool education, Rachel brings a wealth of knowledge in higher education. She has taught Anatomy and Physiology, as well as General Chemistry, at Grand Canyon University and South University. Rachel also contributed to the academic landscape by instructing Introduction to Public Health at Elon University, demonstrating a versatile teaching portfolio. Beyond the classroom, Rachel is a dedicated homeschooling mom to three children. This firsthand experience provides a unique perspective, allowing Rachel to understand the dynamics of homeschooling and tailor the course to meet the needs of students and parents alike. With a commitment to creating an engaging and enriching learning environment.
Course Credit: 1
Min/Max # of Students: 6/18
Method and Frequency of communication: Monthly emails.