In Cambridge, most students take chemistry as sophomores.
In Grade 10 Chemistry, instructional time should focus on eight critical areas:
- Properties of matter;
- Atomic structure;
- Periodicity;
- Chemical Bonding
- Chemical reactions and stoichiometry;
- Gases and kinetic molecular theory;
- Solutions; and
- Acids and Bases
Unit
|
Broad Concept |
Properties of Matter and Thermochemistry (Enthalpy) |
- Physical and chemical properties can be used to classify and describe matter.
- The driving forces of phase changes and chemical reactions are energy and entropy.
|
Atomic Structure |
The model of the atom has changed over time. An atom is a discrete unit. The atomic model can help us understand the interaction of elements and compounds observed on a macroscopic scale. |
Periodicity |
Periodicity of physical and chemical properties relates to atomic structure and led to the development of the periodic table. The periodic table displays the elements in order of increasing atomic number.
|
Chemical Bonding |
Atoms form bonds by the interactions of their valance electrons.
|
Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry |
The conservation of atoms in chemical reactions leads to the ability to calculate the mass of products and reactants. |
Gases and Kinetic Molecular Theory |
The behavior of gases can be explained by Kinetic Molecular Theory. |
Solutions
|
Solids, liquids, and gases dissolve to form solutions. |
Acids and Bases
|
Acids and bases are important in numerous chemical processes that occur around us, from industrial processes to biological ones, from the laboratory to the environment. |
2013 AP Summer Chemistry Assignment
S201: Chemistry

Chemistry
is designed to teach the properties of matter, including elements,
compounds and mixtures. Atomic structure, the physical and chemical
characteristics of elements, the classification of elements into
families, and the patterns of the periodic table will be addressed.
Atomic interaction to form molecules or crystalline solids will be
studied, as well as properties of compounds including electrical
conductivity and solubility. Chemical reactions such as
oxidation-reduction, acid-base and precipitation will be explored both
qualitatively and quantitatively. Nuclear chemistry and gas behavior
will be studied as well. Lab activities provide physical evidence of
chemical theories. Students will prepare lab reports as evidence of
understanding of chemical processes and become proficient in technology.
Students will prepare and present a book review. Length: One semester;
Credits: 10; Prerequisites: Physics and a successful completion of a
grade 9 math class
S202: HN Chemistry
The
curriculum of Honors Chemistry will address the same topics as S201 in
more depth. Rates of reaction and solubility product equilibria will
be explored in detail. Electrochemistry and galvanic cells will be
studied for standard and non-standard conditions. Enthalpy, entropy and
Gibbs Free Energy will be included in a study of thermodynamics. The
mathematics of these topics will be explored. Details of intermolecular
attraction such as London Forces, dipole attraction and hydrogen
bonding will be studied to explain the physical and chemical properties
of substances. Regular lab reports will be produced as evidence of
understanding of the connection between theory and experimental work.
Students will prepare a book review, and will demonstrate the practical
application of a chemical principle. Length: One semester; Credits: 10;
Prerequisites: S101 Physics, Recommendation of Chemistry Teacher and a
grade of B or better in freshman math class
S411: Organic Chemistry
This
advanced chemistry course addresses structures, reactions and uses of
carbon compounds. The classes of carbon chain and ring molecules will be
studied with emphasis on stereo chemistry, reactivity and reaction
mechanisms. The practical applications of hydrocarbons and biomolecules
will be explored, and laboratory activities will be performed.
Familiarity with organic chemistry is excellent preparation for all
types of medical careers. Length: One semester (first semester only);
Credits: 10; Prerequisites: B or better grade in Chemistry and Biology
S502: AP Chemistry
This
course is designed to teach chemistry at the college freshman level and
prepare students for the AP Chemistry Exam. Emphasis will be on
inorganic chemistry, atomic structure, bonding, reactions, periodicity
and equilibrium. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of the
course. Students should be prepared to do university level work. Length:
Year; Credits: 20 (one distributional course requirement);
Prerequisites: Physics, Chemistry and Biology and previous or concurrent
enrollment in Pre-calculus