Honors Chemistry is a first-year introductory class to the wonderful world of the atom. It is designed to meet A-G criteria for UC school admissions and prepare the student for AP chemistry, future STEM classes, or college chemistry. Through lectures, class discussions, small group activities, homework, student-led labs and class lab challenges, students will explore chemical concepts as they apply to the world around them. Emphasis will be on disciplinary core concepts, both qualitative and quantitative laboratory inquiry, mathematical modeling of key concepts, and the process of scientific inquiry. Topics include but are not limited to: modeling the atom (nuclear & subatomic), understanding properties of matter at the bulk scale, chemical bonding, understanding and modeling chemical reactions, moles, stoichiometry, colligative properties, concentration/dilution, thermodynamics, reaction rate, dynamic equilibria, acid/base, reduction/oxidation (redox) and gases. Additional emphasis is placed on the chemical effects of human activity on the environment and on using chemistry to offer viable solutions. This class may culminate in a multi-week biochemical engineering unit depending on participant interest and charter requirements.  Class meets weekly for 3 hours and includes keeping a scientific journal and full lab reports (write-ups). 

Charters must approve the Honors designation.

Pre-requisite: Successful completion of Algebra I with a C or better.