Grade 11 Chemistry Update
Concepts explored This Week
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S 1.2 – The Nuclear Atom: Explored subatomic particles (protons, neutrons, electrons and their relative charges), defined atomic number and mass number, and differentiated between neutral atoms and ions (cations vs. anions). Covered isotopes and calculated relative atomic mass using percentage abundances.
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HL S 1.2: Calculated relative atomic mass using mass spectrum data and analyzed differences in mass spectra when comparing single elements to diatomic molecules.
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S 1.3 – Electron Configuration: Introduced electron configurations using the $s, p, d, f$ orbital model and studied the hydrogen emission spectrum.
Next Steps
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Moving forward, students will build on electron configurations for ions and examine exceptions to the Aufbau principle.
Upcoming Assessment
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End-of-Unit Test (S 1.1, S 1.2, & S 1.3): October 13th
Grade 12 Chemistry Update
Concepts explored & Class Progress
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Kinetics & Equilibrium: Wrapped up the Standard Level (SL) content for Kinetics and began the unit on Equilibrium, which will be completed in the coming week.
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Internal Assessment (IA) Kickoff: Introduced the Chemistry IA. Students completed a small formative task and are now in the process of formulating their research questions.
Next Steps & Reminders
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Students should finalize their IA research questions and check in with both the teacher and the laboratory assistant to confirm the availability and feasibility of needed chemicals and equipment.
Upcoming Assessment
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End-of-Unit Test (Energetics & Kinetics): October 14th