Course Overview

Honors Chemistry B is the second course in the honors-level chemistry sequence, offering students a rigorous and comprehensive study of advanced chemical principles. Building on the foundation of Honors Chemistry A, this course emphasizes the quantitative and theoretical aspects of chemistry, including chemical reactions, stoichiometry, gases, solutions, reaction kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, and thermodynamics. Students also explore the transformation of energy in chemical processes, the conservation of mass, and models of nuclear processes. The curriculum integrates both conceptual understanding and mathematical problem-solving, preparing students for the demands of college-level chemistry.

Key Learning Focus

• Stoichiometry and Chemical Reactions: Applying the conservation of mass to calculate and predict reaction outcomes.
• Gases and Solutions: Understanding gas laws, solution properties, and concentration calculations.
• Reaction Kinetics and Equilibrium: Exploring rates of reaction, factors influencing equilibrium, and Le Châtelier's Principle.
• Acids, Bases, and pH: Analyzing acid-base reactions, titration, and buffer systems.
• Thermodynamics: Investigating energy transfer, enthalpy, entropy, and spontaneity in chemical reactions.
• Nuclear Processes: Developing models of nuclear reactions and their applications.
• Scientific Inquiry and Ethics: Evaluating the global and ethical implications of chemical research and technology.

Instructional Approach

The course emphasizes active learning and hands-on engagement through laboratory experiments, simulations, and project-based activities. Students conduct experiments that reinforce theoretical knowledge, apply mathematical problem-solving to real-world chemical contexts, and explore interdisciplinary problem-solving activities. Laboratory investigations and virtual simulations foster critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication. Students are also introduced to career pathways in chemical sciences and related STEM fields.

Academic Alignment and Progression

Honors Chemistry B is aligned with state and national science education standards, including the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). As the second part of a full-year advanced course sequence, it builds directly on Honors Chemistry A and prepares students for AP Chemistry, dual-enrollment opportunities, and advanced science coursework at the college level. This course also serves as a gateway to careers in medicine, chemical engineering, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and research.

Outcomes

By the end of Honors Chemistry B, students will:

• Apply stoichiometry and conservation of mass to solve complex chemical problems.
• Analyze gas laws, solution chemistry, and energy transformations in chemical reactions.
• Evaluate factors that affect reaction rates, equilibrium, and thermodynamic processes.
• Conduct laboratory experiments to test hypotheses, gather and analyze data, and present scientific findings.
• Model nuclear processes and evaluate their applications in technology and society.
• Connect chemistry to global issues, ethical considerations, and potential STEM careers.
• Be fully prepared for AP Chemistry, college-level science coursework, and advanced career exploration in the chemical sciences.