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Course Description

Pre-requisite: Algebra 2, Biology

AP Chemistry is a college-level course designed for high school students seeking an in-depth understanding of chemistry principles and practices. The course covers a wide range of topics, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, and electrochemistry.

Students will engage in rigorous coursework that includes detailed problem-solving, laboratory experiments, and data analysis. The class emphasizes critical thinking and the application of chemical concepts to real-world scenarios. Laboratory work plays a key role, allowing students to conduct experiments, develop lab reports, and gain hands-on experience with chemical reactions and laboratory techniques.

By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared for the AP Chemistry exam, gaining valuable skills for college-level chemistry and beyond. This course is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in science, engineering, medicine, or related fields. It requires strong mathematical skills and a commitment to a challenging curriculum.

Course Details

AP Chemistry

Eleventh Grade
Twelfth Grade

Course Objectives

  • Understand the fundamental concepts of chemistry, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, and stoichiometry.
  • Develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis.
  • Conduct laboratory experiments to explore chemistry concepts and apply the scientific method.
  • Learn to communicate scientific ideas through written reports and presentations.
  • Prepare for the AP Chemistry exam through practice tests and exam-focused activities.

Course Outline

Unit 1: Structure of Matter

  • Atomic Structure
    • Understanding the structure of atoms and subatomic particles.
    • Exploring electron configuration and periodic trends.
  • Chemical Bonding
    • Types of chemical bonds (ionic, covalent, metallic).
    • Molecular geometry and VSEPR theory.
  • Intermolecular Forces
    • Exploring different types of intermolecular forces.
    • Understanding their impact on physical properties like boiling and melting points.

Unit 2: Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry

  • Stoichiometry
    • Understanding the concepts of moles and molar mass.
    • Performing stoichiometric calculations and balancing chemical equations.
  • Types of Chemical Reactions
    • Exploring different types of chemical reactions (synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement, combustion).
    • Identifying reaction types through experimentation.
  • Limiting Reactants and Yield
    • Understanding limiting reactants and theoretical yield.
    • Performing calculations to determine percent yield.

Unit 3: Thermochemistry and Kinetics

  • Thermochemistry
    • Exploring energy changes in chemical reactions.
    • Understanding concepts like enthalpy, calorimetry, and Hess’s Law.
  • Chemical Kinetics
    • Investigating factors affecting reaction rates.
    • Learning about rate laws and reaction mechanisms.

Unit 4: Chemical Equilibrium

  • Dynamic Equilibrium
    • Understanding the concept of dynamic equilibrium.
    • Exploring Le Chatelier’s principle and its applications.
  • Acids and Bases
    • Examining the properties of acids and bases.
    • Understanding the pH scale and buffer solutions.
  • Equilibrium in Aqueous Solutions
    • Investigating solubility product constants (Ksp).
    • Exploring acid-base titrations and indicators.

Unit 5: Electrochemistry

  • Redox Reactions
    • Understanding oxidation and reduction.
    • Identifying oxidizing and reducing agents in chemical reactions.
  • Electrochemical Cells
    • Exploring voltaic and electrolytic cells.
    • Understanding standard reduction potentials and cell potentials.

Unit 6: Advanced Topics in Chemistry

  • Transition Metals and Coordination Chemistry
    • Examining the properties of transition metals.
    • Exploring coordination complexes and their applications.
  • Organic Chemistry
    • Introduction to basic organic chemistry concepts.
    • Understanding hydrocarbons and simple functional groups.

Unit 7: AP Exam Preparation and Course Reflection

  • AP Chemistry Exam Preparation
    • Review of key concepts and topics covered in the course.
    • Practice with multiple-choice and free-response questions.
  • Full-Length Practice Exam
    • Administering a full-length AP Chemistry practice exam.
    • Discussing exam strategies and reviewing challenging concepts.

Expected Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of fundamental and advanced chemistry concepts. They will have developed strong problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry abilities. This course aims to prepare students for the AP Chemistry exam and further studies in chemistry or related scientific fields.

Coming soon.

Coming soon.

Casia Holzer

Casia graduated from Utah State University with a degree in biology. While she enjoyed her education, her true passion lies in teaching chemistry. If you stepped into her class on a random day, you would most likely find her doing a science experiment. She believes nothing beats hands-on learning! When not enjoying students in the classroom, Casia tutors, writes biographies, and arranges piano music. Her motto is “Life is beautiful!”Casia graduated from Utah State University with a degree in biology. While she enjoyed her education, her true passion lies in teaching chemistry. If you stepped into her class on a random day, you would most likely find her doing a science experiment. She believes nothing beats hands-on learning! When not enjoying students in the classroom, Casia tutors, writes biographies, and arranges piano music. Her motto is “Life is beautiful!”