Grade 10 students study Chemistry, a survey course that introduces the structure and composition of matter and the processes by which matter undergoes change.
Using a combination of laboratory work, class discussion, and problem-solving, students learn chemical concepts and how they apply to our world. In addition to chemical concepts, students also learn chemical and laboratory techniques for investigating properties and chemical behavior for various kinds of substances. Topics include atomic structure and electronic structure, chemical bonding, intermolecular forces, gases and gas properties, chemical reactions and solutions, thermochemistry, and if time permits, kinetics and/or equilibrium.
An advanced, honors-level course is available to students who have demonstrated success and serious interest in science as well as a solid foundation in math. Students will participate in argument-driven laboratory investigations. The Honors Chemistry course covers the topics noted above in more depth and also covers acid-base chemistry, equilibrium, kinetics, and reduction-oxidation reactions.