Chemistry classroom FAQs:

Do I need a calculator daily?

Yes. Definitely. You may bring your assigned math calculator to chemistry if you have one, or you may have to buy your own scientific calculator. You don’t need a graphing calculator. You can get an inexpensive scientific calculator such as TI-30 for $10- $15. I will have a few loaners in class, but no guarantees. You are better prepared if you bring your own.

When & Where can I turn in papers?

All assigned work must be turned in on or before the due date as indicated by your teacher at the time the assignment is given. It may be helpful to you to write the due date at the top of all assignments as you get them. Most work that is incomplete at the end of class will require you to finish it at home that same night. Most work, unless otherwise stated, is due at the very beginning of class. All paper work must be turned in to the black tray on my desk.

When is work considered “late”?

Any work that is not turned in at the time it is due is considered “late”. For Example, if your homework is due at the beginning of class, but you turn it in at the end of class, it will be counted late. No paper is accepted more than 24 hrs. late.

What is the penalty for late papers?

- 30 pts. off your grade

How is my average grade calculated?

Daily work = 40%

Tests = 60%

What are major tests entered twice in the grade book?

Because chapter or unit tests cover more material & require more preparation, they are weighted more heavily than a short section quiz. Therefore, by entering them into the grade book twice, they count as double the weight of a short section quiz.

How can I find out my grade?

At any time you may either check the on-line parent portal or see me before or after school. Progress reports are printed at 3 wks and report cards are printed at 6 wks.

What is your tardy policy?

My classroom expectations state that students are to be in their seat when the bell rings. The PHS tardy policy will be followed in assigning consequences for being tardy.

I see a notation of “dr” instead of my grade on my grade report or when I look at the parent portal. What does this mean?

The “dr” notation means that the grade for that assignment has been dropped.

How can I contact you?

The quickest way to contact me is by email. My email address is tracies@pisd.net

Or, if you prefer, you may call the PHS office at 940-969-5010 as leave me a message. I will return your phone call.

How can I get Chemistry help?

I am available every day during study hall.

Additionally, I am usually available before and after school. Please ask if you plan to come after school to ensure that I will be available. The notes to your problem may be available on this website. If you need additional help, here are some suggestions:

1. Get a friend or classmate to explain to you. Don’t just copy another person’s work- that won’t help.

2. Go to one of the chemistry help websites available on-line. There are many of them and they can be found by searching the web for “chemistry homework help”. Examples include www.mychemistrytutor.com or search for “chemistry tutorials” and you will come up with a list of helpful links such as: http://www.learnchem.net/tutorials/

http://www.chem1.com/chemed/genchem.shtml

http://preparatorychemistry.com/Bishop_Home.htm

How get my make up work done if I am absent?

Come to see me at 7:45 the morning that you return to school. This is a good time usually to turn in your work, pick up any missed work, or schedule study hall time in order to get caught up as quickly as possible. If you are gone more than a couple of days, and feel well enough to do some work at home, you can email me at tracies@pisd.net and I can let you know what you can work on at home.

If you miss a quiz, test, or lab it will have to be made up before school or after school. Talk to me to schedule it.