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Classical Academy SC | General Chemistry

“The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science. He to whom the emotion is a stranger, who can no longer pause to wonder, and stand wrapped in awe, is as good as dead; his eyes are closed.” – Albert Einstein

“Great are the works of the LORD, studied by all who delight in them. Majestic and glorious is his work, his righteousness endures forever.” Psalm 111:2-3

Chemistry helps students develop virtues leading to strong scholarship, but more importantly, it strives to cultivate a sense of wonder about the physical world around them. Besides the acquisition of scientific knowledge, the goal is for students to recognize that they now partake with many scientists throughout history in the pursuit of truth. Growing awareness of the beauty and order of our world, as well as the connection with humanity, will inevitably lead to the true source of all this mastery.

In order to prepare students for college-level chemistry, this course uses a mastery approach. The text, General Chemistry by John D. Mays, facilitates mastery by covering fewer concepts at a deeper level. Our goal is to have a solid, working comprehension of these concepts and to apply the mathematical calculations accompanying them. Mastering these concepts now will create a tremendous foundation upon which higher-level concepts can build in college. Repetitive review of important “standard problems” throughout the year will keep concepts relevant and fresh. This course integrates science with history, mathematics, faith, and the epistemology of science. While receiving a solid foundation in science, we will take time to contemplate and discuss topics in class.

Recommended Materials:

Mr. Robin Simiyu

[email protected]

Robin Simiyu is a Chemistry educator, researcher, and university lecturer with a passion for helping students discover the order, beauty, and wisdom of God's creation through the study of science. He holds a Master of Science in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Education in Science (Chemistry and Biology) from the University of Embu in Kenya. His teaching experience spans university instruction, secondary education, and online learning. Most recently, Robin taught Chemistry online for Grace Christian School in the United States.
Alongside his teaching, Robin is actively involved in scientific research and has authored and co-authored peer-reviewed research publications (https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=MWMr8nsAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao).
Robin enjoys mentoring students and believes that meaningful learning is built on encouragement, patience, and genuine relationships. He strives to create a classroom where students feel comfortable asking questions, exploring challenging ideas, and growing both academically and personally.
Outside the classroom, Robin enjoys reading, writing, mentoring young people at his church, spending time outdoors, and playing chess. He is grateful for the opportunity to serve the Scholé Academy community and looks forward to partnering with families in helping students grow in knowledge, character, and an appreciation of God's creation.

Quarter 1

  1. Intro to Chemistry
  2. Using Measurements
  3. Atoms, Elements, and Compounds
  4. Atomic Structure

Quarter 2

  1. Periodic Table and Laws
  2. Chemical Bonding
  3. Molecular Theory and Metallic Bonding

Quarter 3

  1. Solutions
  2. Acids and Bases
  3. Redox Chemistry

Quarter 4

  1. Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry
  2. Kinetic Theory and States of Matter
  3. Scientific Laws Concerning Gasses

Red checkmarkComputer: You will need a stable, reliable computer, running with a processor with a speed of 1 GHz or better on one of the following operating systems: Mac OS X with Mac OS 10.7 or later; Windows 8, 7, Vista (with SP1 or later), or XP (with SP3 or later). We do not recommend using an iPad or other tablet for joining classes. An inexpensive laptop or netbook would be much better solutions, as they enable you to plug an Ethernet cable directly into your computer. Please note that Chromebooks are allowed but not preferred, as they do not support certain features of the Zoom video conference software such as breakout sessions and annotation, which may be used by our teachers for class activities.

Red checkmarkHigh-Speed Internet Connection: You will also need access to high-speed Internet, preferably accessible via Ethernet cable right into your computer. Using Wi-Fi may work, but will not guarantee you the optimal use of your bandwidth. The faster your Internet, the better. We recommend using a connection with a download/upload speed of 5/1 Mbps or better. You can test your Internet connection here.

Red checkmarkWebcam: You may use an external webcam or one that is built in to the computer. Webcam Recommendations: Good (PC only) | Best (Mac and PC)

Red checkmarkHeadset: We recommend using a headset rather than a built-in microphone and speakers. Using a headset reduces the level of background noise heard by the entire class. Headset Recommendations: USB | 3.5mm

Red checkmarkZoom: We use a web conferencing software called Zoom for our classes, which enables students and teachers to gather from around the globe face to face in real time. Zoom is free to download and easy to use. unnamed-e1455142229376 To download Zoom:

  1. Visit zoom.us/download.
  2. Click to download the first option listed, Zoom Client for Meetings.
  3. Open and run the installer on your computer.
  4. In August, students will be provided with instructions and a link for joining their particular class.

Red checkmarkScanner: In this class, students frequently submit homework assignments by scanning pages from their workbooks. Students and/or their parents should have easy access to a scanner and the ability to use it.

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First, read the available course descriptions, noting prerequisites, target grades, and course objectives. If you think your student is prepared for the course, go ahead and register. After registration, a placement assessment may be provided to students, depending on the course and the student's previous enrollment with Scholé Academy. Registration is finalized when the student's placement assessment has been returned by the course instructor with placement confirmation.

 

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Our Assistant to the Principal will be in touch with you after your enrollment to help you with next steps, including any placement evaluations that may be required for your course selections.

This registration will be finalized when the student's placement assessment has been returned by the course instructor with placement confirmation.