Chemistry

The chemistry program at NMH begins with introductory-, honors-, or advanced -level Chemistry I. Interested students may also choose to take Chemistry II in preparation for the SAT II subject exam in chemistry. Students who wish to prepare for the AP exam in chemistry may choose between the Extended Advanced Placement Chemistry course or the AP Chemistry course, which require written application and department approval.

CHE 311 Chemistry I

Credit:

One credit* Open to sophomores (with department chair approval), juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite:

Algebra I; Geometry recommended. A previous high school course in science is required.

This laboratory-based course is a study of matter and the changes it undergoes. Major topics include atomic structure, periodicity, and bonding; names, formulas, and reactions of chemical substances; the mole concept, including extensive stoichiometry, thermochemistry, aqueous solutions, kinetic theory, and gas behavior.

CHE 312 Chemistry II

Credit:

One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite:

Chemistry I(a grade of B- or better is recommended).

Continuation of topics in Chemistry I, which may include, but are not limited to, acid-base chemistry, equilibrium, redox, electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, organic chemistry, and advanced laboratory techniques. Upon completion of this course, successful students will be prepared for the SAT II Chemistry Test.

CHE 321 Honors Chemistry I

Credit:

One credit* Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors with departmental approval.

Prerequisite:

Honors grades in previous high school science courses, Algebra I, Geometry, and teacher recommendation.

This is a comprehensive introductory chemistry course. Candidates for Honors Chemistry I should be accomplished math and science students who are prepared for a fast-paced, intensive science course. In addition to the topics listed in the description for CHE 311, the following topics will be covered: solution chemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, and other topics as time permits. Upon completion of the course, successful students will be prepared for the SAT II Chemistry test.

CHE 331/CHE 511 B Advanced Honors Chemistry/AP Chemistry B

Credit:

Two credits* (see below)

Prerequisite:

B+ or better in Algebra II and prior science courses. Students must have completed Algebra II or be enrolled in Algebra II fall semester.

Students must be enrolled in both the fall and spring semester of this linked two-credit course, and will be required to take the AP examination in May. Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors who submit a written application and receive department approval.

This is a two-semester, college-level course intended for students who have had little or no previous high school chemistry. This course follows the AP curriculum and includes introductory material and advanced topics, including chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, electrochemistry, and basic concepts of thermodynamics. Candidates should be accomplished math and science students who are interested in and prepared for an intensive chemistry course.

CHE 511 Advanced Placement Chemistry

Credit:

One credit*

Prerequisite:

B+ or better in high school chemistry and physics

Open to juniors and seniors who submit a written application and receive department approval.

This college-level course is intended for those students interested in pursuing a science or engineering major in college. Following the AP syllabus, this course includes an intensive review of first-year chemistry. Additionally, topics such as the structure of matter, kinetic theory of gases, chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, electrochemistry, and the basic concepts of thermodynamics are presented in considerable depth.