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Chemistry A Self-Paced

Students are introduced to the science of chemistry beginning with exploring why scientists are interested in studying matter at a subatomic level. Students will learn how scientific methods are used to understand the natural world.

Course topics include:

  • Characteristics of Matter
  • Atomic Structure
  • Chemical Periodicity
  • Chemical Bonds and Compounds
  • Chemical Formulas

Students learn through online lesson activities, videos, and interactive activities. Each module begins with a pretest, proceeds to lessons that conclude with a brief self-check, and wraps with a module exam. The course concludes with a cumulative exam.

This self-paced course uses content from Accelerate Education taught by a VHS Learning instructor who is certified in their content area and who follows VHS Learning policies. The course will be hosted in the Buzz learning management system.

About the Self-Paced Course Model

Self-Paced courses are designed for students who need flexibility in their academic schedule. Teachers answer questions and interact with students in Private Topics, provide feedback on work, and host weekly office hours. Students work independently on course activities; the course does not include class discussion assignments or other collaborative work.

This course has start dates on each Wednesday throughout the year. Students must maintain enrollment for a minimum of 4 weeks and have up to 16 weeks to complete all assignments in the course. It is expected that students will work for approximately 90 hours to complete this course, though the amount of time may vary depending on a student’s work habits and comfort with the material.

Acknowledgements

  • Algebra 2
  • I acknowledge that this is a self-paced course.
  • This course does not require purchase of a lab kit. Students will complete virtual lab activities and hands-on activities that use common household materials.
  • This course contains an end-of-course proctored exam. Instructions for students to identify an appropriate adult proctor are included in the course lessons

Course Objectives

  • Understand and explain how scientists use the scientific method.
  • Analyze properties of matter.
  • Understand and explain atomic structure.
  • Apply concepts of nuclear chemistry to nuclear reactions.
  • Understand and apply the periodic table.
  • Create electron configurations using proper energy level diagrams.
  • Understand and apply principles of chemical bonds.
  • Describe the impact of intermolecular forces.

Additional Requirements

Additional Requirements:

Students will use a number of common materials to complete hands-on activities:

  • Building materials (examples include aluminum foil, cardboard, plastic wrap, string, crafts sticks, straws, glue, paper, scissors, etc.)
  • Drawing software or paper, ruler, and compass
  • Household liquids (such as milk, detergent, oil, soap, mouthwash)
  • Measuring cups or spoons
  • Thermometer
  • Cups, bowls, or plates
  • Ground pepper