The best preparation for the test (and for Chemistry 11) is to review your algebra and chemistry skills. You should consider borrowing a Chemistry 10 textbook from the SMC Library to familiarize yourself with general chemistry concepts. You can also review other test preparation guides available at bookstores. You may also want to review the materials found at the following websites:
Due to COVID 19, the Success and Engagement Center is closed to walk-in testing. Please sign-up online to schedule a remote chem challenge exam. Once we reopen, we will test during normal testing hours. You must bring a government issued photo identification. We reserve the right to request two forms of ID.
You are not required to take the Chemistry Challenge exam to attend SMC. This exam is for any student who wishes to place directly into Chemistry 11 and bypass the Chemistry 10 prerequisite.
Requirements for schedule the challenge exam for Chemistry 11.
- You cannot have attempted SMC's Chemistry 10 course (e.g., has a W or another grade in class) or are currently enrolled in Chemistry 10 can take the Chemistry Challenge exam.
The challenge exam serves two purposes:
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It acquaints students with the skills that are needed to succeed in the introductory chemistry series; and
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It serves to identify those students who are eligible for placement into Chemistry 11.
For students who do not pass the Chemistry Challenge exam, we recommend you improve your skills by enrolling and completing Chemistry 10 first.
SMC uses the California Chemistry Diagnostic Test to assess students' skills in chemistry. This is a timed, computerized test consisting of 44 questions. Students will be given 50 minutes to complete the test. You will be given scratch paper, pencil, calculator, and the periodic table to use on the Chemistry Exam. No outside calculators or electronic devices are allowed in the Testing Center.
This exam consists of questions based on high school chemistry and high school mathematics. Topics and skills tested may include:
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Math: solving simple algebraic equations; use of proportions and percentages; solving word problems.
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Chemistry: the majority of items are concerned with concepts addressed 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.
For testing:
- You will need to have the copy of the periodic table you are given by staff
- You are not allowed a calculator. If needed, one will be provided on the exam
- No other materials are allowed for the exam