AP Chemistry
Course Description
Rigorous, math-intensive college-level chemistry covering one full year of General Chemistry. Students deepen their understanding of stoichiometry, reactions, kinetics, equilibrium, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and core atomic/molecular structure. Emphasis is placed on quantitative problem-solving, explaining chemical phenomena with models, and clearly communicating solutions in lab and written work in alignment with the AP framework.
| Credits | 10 (year-long) |
| UC A–G Area | D — Laboratory Science (confirm on UCOP A–G list) |
| Level & GPA Weight | AP (weighted; confirm UCOP/district policy) |
| Recommended Grades | G11–G12 |
| Prerequisites | Algebra II (required); Algebra II/Trig or Trigonometry (preferred); Chemistry Honors (required). |
| Textbook / Platform |
Chemistry: The Central Science, 14th Ed. (AP Edition) with Modified Mastering Chemistry. Authors: Brown, LeMay, Bursten, Murphy. ISBN-13: 9780134650951. |
Major Units & Topics
- Structure of Matter — atomic theory & structure; electron configurations; periodic trends; bonding & molecular geometry; nuclear chemistry
- States of Matter — gases (gas laws, KMT), liquids/solids (phase changes, phase diagrams, crystal structure), solutions (concentration, colligative properties)
- Reactions & Stoichiometry — types of reactions, redox, net ionic equations, limiting reactants, titration reasoning
- Chemical Equilibrium — equilibrium constants, Le Châtelier’s principle, quantitative equilibrium analysis
- Kinetics — rate laws, orders, mechanisms & rate-determining step, catalysts, Arrhenius/activation energy
- Thermodynamics — enthalpy (Hess’s law, calorimetry), entropy, Gibbs free energy, links to equilibrium & electrochemistry
- Electrochemistry — galvanic/voltaic & electrolytic cells, standard potentials, Nernst, energy–equilibrium relationships
Laboratory Component
- Mandatory lab attendance for synchronous classes; detailed lab reports due by the following session.
- Representative investigations: solution stoichiometry & titration, calorimetry, kinetics (method of initial rates), equilibrium (Kc), electrochemical cells.
- Emphasis on quantitative technique, error analysis, and linking evidence to chemical models.
Delivery Options & Tuition
| Model | What’s Included | Live Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independent Asynchronous | Self-paced modules, graded work, email Q&A | N/A | $1,198 |
| Teacher-Guided Asynchronous | Instructor pacing, periodic check-ins, grading & feedback | ~8 hours | $2.150 |
| Mini-One-on-One | Targeted coaching, problem-solving clinics, AP practice | ~24 hours | $2,856 |
| One-on-One | Fully personalized instruction & pacing (incl. lab prep) | ~40–42 hours | Varies ($119/hr) |
Time & Workload Expectations
- Weekly study time (typical): 4–6 hours for readings, problem sets, and lab writeups.
- Assessments: periodic quizzes, a midterm, and a comprehensive final per semester.
- Communication: email is standard for asynchronous models; live sessions vary by delivery option
Grading & Course Policies
| Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Tests/Quizzes | 20% |
| Homework | 20% |
| Midterm | 20% |
| Final Test | 20% |
| Lab | 20% |
- Attendance & Tardiness for Synchronous Sessions: minimize tardiness; >15 min = UT; >30 min = UA.
- Devices: phones on silent permitted to capture board work; unauthorized use during assessments = automatic F.
- Absences: notify instructor/office of planned absences as early as possible
- Extra Credit: may be offered at instructor discretion (typically a project near end of second semester).
Additional Notes
- Pacing Guide: Personalized plan aligned to your start/end dates and seasonal schedules.
- Accessibility: Reasonable accommodations available—please notify counselor/instructor during onboarding.
- Parent Updates: Progress check-ins available upon request
Track Eligibility (Academic Track & AI Certification)
- Full-Time (≥5 courses/year): counts toward certifications.
- Dual Enrollment (LCP school of record) (≥3 courses/year): counts toward certifications.
- Dual Enrollment (other school of record) (≥6 LCP courses across high school with counselor-approved plan): counts toward certifications.
- Part-Time à-la-carte: does not count toward certifications.