Students wishing to take Chemistry 11 (General Chemistry 1) who feel strongly that they have the skills taught in Chemistry 10, which are required to be successful in Chemistry 11, can take the chemistry assessment in order to challenge the Chemistry 10 (Introductory General Chemistry) prerequisite.

PURPOSE

The test serves two purposes. It acquaints students with the skills that are needed to succeed in the introductory chemistry series and it serves to identify those students who are eligible for placement into Chemistry 11. For some students the examination will be a warning that their chances of obtaining a satisfactory grade in Chemistry 11 are very slight and they should improve their skills by enrolling in Chemistry 10. A placement exam taken elsewhere cannot replace this exam. You are allowed one retest only!

CONTENT

This 45-minute test consists of questions based on high school chemistry and high school mathematics. These include questions on solving simple algebraic equations, on the use of proportions and percentages, and on solving word problems. The majority of the test deals with chemistry and is primarily concerned with concepts discussed in Chemistry 10, including: elements and their properties, chemical formulas, concentrations of solutions, gases, oxidation numbers, redox reactions and the concepts of acids and bases. The best preparation for the test (and for Chemistry 11) is to review the parts of high school algebra and chemistry, which have been forgotten. Those who wish to prepare for the test and do not have a chemistry text may find helpful one of the books prepared for reviewing for the standardized achievement tests in chemistry. These can be obtained in any bookstore.

REQUIREMENTS

You will need to bring to the exam a valid/current picture I.D. (driver's license, passport, SMC ID card etc), number 2 pencil and your SMC. I.D. number. Calculators are NOT allowed. The test booklet includes a periodic table and a list of abbreviations for the exam. In addition, please be sure to:

1. Bring your email appointment confirmation on the date of the test (to be emailed to you once you are determined to be eligible). This is your authorization for the SMC Chemistry Challenge Exam appointment.
    

2. Arrive 15 minutes early since the exam begins promptly at the time indicated on your appointment card. Late arrivals will not be admitted under any circumstances.

NOTE: It is also the student’s responsibility to meet the math prerequisite prior to enrolling in Chemistry 11. You will not be able to enroll in Chemistry 11 until both Chemistry and Math prerequisites have been met.

TESTING DATES & APPOINTMENTS

For Summer/Fall 2007
Chemistry 10 Challenge Exam Schedule