Exam Advice and Practice exams
If you don't do as well
as you want, don't drop
the class - keep learning as much as you can, take a W at the END of the
semester, and you'll know that much more for the second time around. If you
drop now, it won't get any easier.
Chemistry 152 is a tough
class and there is nothing wrong with taking it twice. If you decide not to
take the Final exam, request a W in writing at any time to avoid an F.
What goes wrong? Most likely one of three things.
1. Did not spend enough time weekly on course: 6-10 hours per week every week
2. You tried to memorize your way through the course because that is what worked in high school. There is a huge difference between plugging numbers into a math formula just because you can and getting a number that you have no idea if it makes sense VS judging which of several formulas to use, identifying variables that matter and those that are irrelevant, and judging your answer to see if it makes sense. (for example -35 Kelvin makes no sense, -2.5M makes no sense)
1. You don't remember CHM 151 material or didn't learn it very well in the first place. A low C in CHM 151 usually is not good enough to take CHM 152 - you should repeat CHM 151 again, besides getting a B will look better.
Also make sure you are in the right class. If you are getting below 50 on your exams, you really should go back and take CHM 151 again. There is no reason to be frustrated in 152 if you don't remember 151. Just take it again, it's not the end of the world.
You must learn with understanding, NOT just memorize. Future employees, programs, schools will look at your chemistry grade to see if you can think logically, solve complex problems, and use critical thinking skills. Even if you never calculate an equilibrium constant again, this course is important for the problem solving skills you practice and learn.
Advise for exams: Study the chapter reviews, any practice problems, groups works, quizzes, and your notes. Practice calculations over and over and over and over.
One hour before the exam put your chemistry stuff away and RELAX the science part of your mind!
Old exams may be in different chapter order.